5 Minutes with… The Farming Community Network (FCN)

25 March 2025 — jessica-bailey

We spoke with Alex Phillimore, Head of Communications and Development at The Farming Community Network (FCN), to learn more about how this voluntary organisation and charity helps to improve the support available to those living with cancer in farming communities and rural areas.

Tell us about your organisation?  

The Farming Community Network is a UK-wide voluntary organisation and charity that aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people in farming and ‘walk with’ people at times of difficulty and change. FCN has a wide network of volunteers, many of whom are involved in farming, or have close links with agriculture and therefore have a great understanding of the issues farm workers and farming families regularly face. Our volunteers provide free and confidential support to anyone who seeks help, regardless of whether the issue is personal or business-related. 

What services do you offer people living with cancer? 

We are involved in a UK-wide partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support which is helping to improve the support available to those living with cancer in farming communities and rural areas. As part of this partnership FCN is working closely with Macmillan Cancer Support, including raising awareness in rural communities of the signs and symptoms of cancer and building referral bridges to and from Macmillan’s services. 

Farmers, farm workers and people living in rural communities can have lower access to cancer services and support due to the nature of their work and rural life in often isolated areas. Farmers can be particularly at-risk of certain types of cancer – such as skin cancer, prostate cancer, or cancers caused by exposure to carcinogens. 

Cancer can impact a family business that may employ many people and can have significant impacts on an individual and their families – including their housing and extended family situation, or immediate welfare issues for livestock. Through this partnership we are identifying obstacles and challenges people in farming and rural communities can face when accessing cancer support services, and are giving a voice to people in our communities who have been impacted by cancer.  

Do you have a target demographic who use your services? 

People within the agricultural sector – including farmers, farming families and farm workers.  

How are you funded? 

FCN is a registered charity. 

Has anything changed for your organisation since the pandemic? 

FCN has seen a growing need for the support we can provide. Our volunteers understand the ‘language’ of farming and can listen, support and connect with people in our sector. 

What’s the most rewarding thing about the work you do? 

FCN has been called a ‘lifeline’ by people we have helped. People have said that they are still farming today thanks to the support of our charity. 

What would you say to those who are considering getting in touch with you but are nervous or apprehensive? 

A problem shared is a problem halved. We understand the unique pressures associated with farming life and are here to help.  

Do you have testimonials from people that have used your services? 

You can access a range of testimonials at fcn.org.uk/testimonials-and-supporting-statements/ 

To find out more about the work of the FCN, please visit their website at fcn.org.uk. If you’d like to discover other support services in your area, and nationwide, please search on Cancer Care Map’s homepage using your postcode.