Women Farmers With Decision Power Report Less Loneliness

Women who help make decisions on their farms report significantly better mental health and less loneliness than those left out of the conversation, according to the first major study of its kind.

More than 2,000 women involved in farming across England and Wales shared their experiences in a 2025 survey led by the University of Exeter and The Farming Community Network. The respondents ranged from 18 to 95 years old and worked on farms of all types and sizes.

The results revealed a troubling gap. Women in farming scored lower on mental well-being measures than the general population across every age group, with 36% showing signs of low well-being. They also reported higher stress, worse anxiety, and poorer sleep quality than average.

But the study uncovered a powerful solution already working for many. Women who felt valued and supported, who participated in farm decisions, and who balanced farm and non-farm work well reported much higher mental well-being and far less loneliness.

About 61% of respondents already help make farm decisions, either alone or with others. Among those excluded from decision-making, 39% said they wanted more responsibility and felt dissatisfied with their lack of input.

The connection between decision-making and loneliness stood out as particularly strong. Having little or no say in farm choices was directly linked to higher levels of isolation.

The Ripple Effect

The findings are already shaping how farming communities support their members. The Farming Community Network has launched FarmWell community events across England and Wales to bring farmers together and combat isolation.

Dr. Rebecca Wheeler, who led the research, emphasized that many participants appreciated finally having their voices heard. The team will conduct deeper interviews through 2027 to develop targeted recommendations for supporting women in agriculture.

Despite the challenges, most women celebrated the upsides of farm life. Eighty-three percent valued being outdoors, 74% cherished their connection to nature, and 69% loved working with animals. Many also saw farms as wonderful places to raise children.

Linda Jones from The Farming Community Network noted that feeling valued showed the strongest link to better mental health and reduced loneliness. These insights will help shape future support programs tailored specifically to women's needs in farming communities.

The research continues to seek participants from Wales to ensure Welsh women's experiences shape the final recommendations.