Fit Farmers App Launched in Co. Leitrim
Farmers, farm families and rural residents across Co. Leitrim now have access to a new digital resource designed to support health, wellbeing, and community connection. The Fit Farmers mobile app was launched through a partnership between Fit Farmers and Healthy Leitrim, an initiative of Leitrim County Council supported by Healthy Ireland and the Department of Health. The app is one example of the many positive initiatives helping to improve health and wellbeing across the county.
The launch event, held on 27th August in Mohill Library, brought together community representatives, programme participants and health and wellbeing professionals to celebrate the introduction of a dedicated Leitrim section within the Fit Farmers App. The platform provides users with access to trusted health and wellbeing information, farm safety resources, and signposting to local supports available throughout Co. Leitrim. The app is free to download on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store and can be used offline, giving users easy access to information and support anytime, anywhere.
The initiative builds on the success of the Fit Farmers programme, which has already supported participants across the county to improve their physical and mental health. Through a combination of practical supports, community engagement and accessible information. The programme aims to address some of the unique challenges faced by people living and working in rural areas where long working hours and busy lifestyles can often leave little time for self-care. Event attendees heard from Laura Tully, Founder and Programme Lead of Fit Farmers, who outlined the development of the programme and the impact it continues to have on participants and rural communities nationwide. The evening included a panel discussion featuring previous programme participants who shared their personal experiences and the positive changes they have made through involvement in the initiative.
Speaking at the launch, Leitrim County Council, Cathaoirleach Mary Bohan said:
"Farming is at the heart of life in Leitrim and our farmers and their families are central to the strength of our rural communities. While farming is rewarding, it can also be demanding, often leaving little time to focus on personal health and wellbeing. The Fit Farmers programme and app are helping to change that by encouraging people to take positive steps for their health. I am particularly delighted that Leitrim is the pilot county for this app as we continue to champion positive health and wellbeing across the county."
Laura Tully encouraged those in attendance to place the same importance on their own health as they do on their farm. She noted that if a calf is sick, most farmers will have the vet out straight away, yet many will put off seeking help for their own health concerns. Her key message was that looking after your own health is just as important as looking after the farm.
Martin McHugh, former Leitrim goalkeeper, Connacht Championship winner and author of Born to Save, was among the panel members on the night. Martin spoke openly about the importance of looking after your health, encouraging men to make time for regular check-ups and not ignore potential warning signs. He highlighted the value of early detection for conditions such as prostate and testicular cancer, reminding those in attendance that prevention and acting early can make all the difference. Padraig Jones, who took part in the Fit Farmers programme in Mohill in 2025, spoke about the laughter, camaraderie and encouragement experienced during the six-week programme. He highlighted the positive results shown through the programme's pre- and post-assessments and noted that many participants have continued to stay active through programmes delivered by Leitrim Sports Partnership.
The evening concluded with a demonstration of the Fit Farmers App, followed by attendees downloading the app and exploring its features. Laura Tully, Founder of Fit Farmers, highlighted the importance of providing farmers with easy access to trusted health information:
" Farmers often look for answers when a health concern is on their mind, particularly outside of normal hours. While the programme remains at the heart of what we do, the app provides something practical that participants can carry with them long after the programme has finished."
The next Leitrim Fit Farmers programme will take place in Drumshanbo from 5th November to 10th December, providing another opportunity for local farmers and rural residents to get involved and take positive steps towards improved health and wellbeing. For more information on the programme, email Healthyleitrim@leitrimcoco.ie