Be the change

The food and farming sector continues to face higher levels of injury and fatalities than other sectors.

From rising costs to evolving environmental policies, and from an ageing workforce to worries about inheritance tax, rural industries face growing challenges. The need for collaborative, meaningful change has rarely been more urgent.

As Farm Safety Week 2025 (21–25 July) approaches, we ask “what needs to change?” and “how can we lead that change from within?”

IOSH President-Elect Richard Bate will host this panel discussion. It will cover:

• reflections on the latest HSE fatality figures and what they mean for the sector
• the realities farmers face: economic strain, demographic shifts and policy change
• how occupational safety and health (OSH) professionals can support and influence safer practices in a resource-stretched industry
• stories of successful change and collaboration from across the sector.

The focus is on practical solutions and our shared responsibility in creating a positive OSH culture in the sector.