When Tragedy Strikes the Family Farm: What Happens Next?

Grief and Responsibility Collide

After the unimaginable happens, a farm family is left to process their grief while facing the reality of running a farm business that cannot pause. Embrace FARM offers both practical and emotional support in the aftermath of serious injury or sudden death.

Referencing their own publication, “What Happens to the Farm Now? A Practical Supports Booklet,” Embrace FARM provides guidance on what steps to take next.

A High-Risk Sector with Deep Impact

The workplace fatality rate in agriculture is higher than in any other sector in Ireland [source]. This means that most people in the agricultural community either know a family affected by serious injury or sudden death, or have experienced it themselves.

When someone dies suddenly within a farm family, it can feel like the entire world is upended. You’re grieving, your family is grieving, and yet the farm must continue. The emotional weight is compounded by the practical demands of daily life and business.

Planning Ahead If Possible

Ideally, conversations about the future of the farm should happen before a tragedy occurs. These discussions should include:

• The farm and land owner
• Key people involved in day-to-day operations
• Potential heirs or successors
• Any other relevant stakeholders

Once the situation is understood, it’s important to involve professionals such as:

• Succession planners
• Agricultural solicitors
• Financial or agri-business consultants

Even if these conversations didn’t happen before your loved one passed, it’s never too late to be transparent with yourself and your family about what comes next.

Immediate Practical Needs

While long-term planning is essential, there are immediate concerns that need attention:

• Who will manage the day-to-day running of the farm?
• When should you contact a solicitor?
• What legal or financial steps need to be taken?

It can be overwhelming to know where to begin—both emotionally and practically. Embrace FARM is here to help guide you through those first steps.

Tailored Support for Every Situation

The support you need will depend on your unique circumstances. A conversation with Embrace FARM can help clarify what’s best for your family and your farm’s future. We’ll connect you with experts who can assist with both practical and emotional needs.

Embrace FARM also offers a range of publications and resources on grief, loss, and practical support, available at: embracefarm.com/resources

Disclaimer: The information in this article is intended as a general guide only. While every care is taken to ensure accuracy of information contained in this article, Embrace FARM or its contributors do not accept responsibility for errors or omissions howsoever arising.