Paul Farmer, charity leader
Summary
Charity leader Paul Farmer joins Lauren Laverne to discuss his career campaigning for mental health at Mind and his current role at Age UK tackling ageism. He reflects on his upbringing with a monk father, his time as a Samaritan volunteer, and the profound grief of losing his wife Claire to cancer. Farmer selects eight tracks, including works by Aretha Franklin and Nick Cave, that reflect his journey of connection, faith, and resilience.
Topics discussed
Introduction and guest overview
Belief-making and tackling loneliness in later life
First track: 'Free' and family history
Father's life as a monk and historian
Mother's rebellious faith and school days
Walking sports and second track: 'Don't Leave Me This Way'
Oxford years, meeting wife Claire, and travelling
Third track: 'The Sound of Silence' and isolation
Working at the Samaritans and learning to listen
Campaigning at Rethink and Mind against stigma
Asda costume controversy and government engagement
Fifth track: 'Into My Arms' by Nick Cave
Claire's cancer diagnosis, illness, and grief
Sixth track: 'The Drunk Surfer' and music club
Moving to Age UK and healthspan statistics
Books, luxury item, and final track: 'Sunshine on Leith'
Outro and archive recommendations
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