A year of impact and recognition for Farm Families Health Checks programme

The Farm Families Health Checks team has been reflecting on a year of memorable achievements as 2025 draws to a close.

From livestock markets to community gatherings and agricultural business events, they were a familiar and welcome presence, playing a vital role in improving health and wellbeing within our rural communities.

Team Coordinator Christina Faulkner said: “What sets this service apart is its unwavering commitment to rural communities. Many farmers and their families have praised the convenience, confidentiality, and accessibility of on-the-spot health checks delivered right to their doorstep. In regions where long hours and remote locations often make healthcare a challenge, this programme fills a vital gap.”

To date, the programme has delivered over 28,000 health checks, with 43% of participants referred on to their GP for further care. Each check includes essential screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, BMI and diabetes, alongside practical advice on early cancer detection and personalized lifestyle guidance. For those referred to their GP, the support doesn’t end there as a follow-up phone call ensures ongoing advice and encouragement.

The programme’s impact did not go unnoticed throughout the year, with Christina honoured to be named RCN Public Health Nurse of the Year, a testament to the importance of bringing health services directly to rural and farming communities. The service also received the prestigious Health and Safety Award at the NI Farming Life Awards, further cementing its reputation for excellence.

Looking ahead, the team is gearing up to hit the road again in the new year, bringing vital health checks to even more communities with a full schedule of mart visits planned during January.

January 5 (pm) Downpatrick

January 9 Keady

January 12 (pm) Ballymena

January 14 Saintfield

January 17 Clogher

Interested in hosting a visit at your next community event? Reach out to book your spot and be part of this life-changing initiative.

Email Farm.Families6@northerntrust.hscni.net or ring 028 2563 5573 to speak with a member of the team.

The Farm Families Health Checks Team has been developed and is co-funded by the Public Health Agency (PHA) and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA). It has been successfully delivered by the Northern Health and Social Care Trust since March 2012.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

30th December 2025