The first event will be held on September 16 at The Farmer’s Dog
A new monthly event is offering farmers a chance to connect, share concerns, and access support – with the first one set for Jeremy Clarkson’s pub.
Blenheim Palace has launched The Not-Coffee Coffee Morning in partnership with Thames Valley Police and the National Farmers’ Union (NFU).
The initiative aims to support the wellbeing of farmers and farm workers across Oxfordshire and neighbouring counties.
Gatherings will rotate between different farming venues each month and are designed to help reduce isolation and create a supportive environment for open conversation.
The first event will be held on September 16 at The Farmer’s Dog.
Merilyn Davies, head of community engagement at Blenheim Palace, said: “The Not-Coffee Coffee Morning felt a natural progression from our annual Rural Crime Farming Conference at Blenheim Palace.
“We recognise that farming can be an isolated and high-pressure profession, so we wanted to create a regular opportunity for farmers and their families to come together, build connections, and access support.
“Thames Valley Police’s Rural Crime Task Force and the NFU were natural partners in helping to deliver the initiative.”
The scheme was developed in response to growing concerns about the financial, environmental, and social challenges facing the farming community.
Nathan Boyd, NFU county adviser for Berks, Bucks, and Oxon, said: “Farming is a high-pressure industry, and with the reduction in farm shows, cattle markets, and local meetings over the last few decades, it’s time farmers had an option on the table to come and talk to fellow farmers with no pressure, no need to buy or sell or take advice, and just have a cuppa.”
