While you will have your own individual way to describe 2024, we start this issue of Rural Living with Members’ reflections on what the year has meant for them.
We’ve enjoyed seeing so many Members and other visitors at the region’s agricultural shows over the summer. We’re always keen to hear from you at these events and learn about what’s happening on farm and in your communities.
What we consider as ‘normal’ weather may be changing, but we can still say the approaching winter season will undoubtedly bring with it a heightened need for considering health and safety, preparing for bad weather and protecting against rural crime.
We look at all of these in this issue. We learn about the value our Farm Health & Safety Service is bringing to one Member welcoming a range of visitors on to his farm and give a timely reminder on public and employers’ liability insurances.
In each of the counties we cover – Cornwall, Devon, Dorset and Somerset – we work closely with the Rural Crime teams and here we catch up on their advice around protecting your essential farm equipment. We also help you stay up to date with the latest regulations likely to be impacting your business.
Applications for this year’s Cornish Mutual Young Farmer Bursaries are now open and we look forward to hearing from students studying agriculture across our region; their passion for the future of the farming industry is always so heartening.
We also give you a flavour of recent episodes from our podcast, Farming Focus™. The next series begins in early December and we would love to hear from you on what topics we should cover. If you have comments or ideas for topics or those you’d most like to hear from, email podcast@cornishmutual.co.uk.
And for everything else you’d like us to know – feedback, suggestions - or your questions, contact us on ruralliving@cornishmutual.co.uk.
From
The Cornish Mutual Team
Looking back on the year and ahead to 2025
Cornish Mutual Members tell us about what 2024 meant for them and their plans for the year ahead.
Samantha and Sam Edwards, West Dorset
“Three words to describe farming in 2024 would be challenging, wet and resilient, it has definitely been a year of highs and lows.” Samantha Edwards
Samantha and Sam Edwards are first generation sheep farmers in West Dorset. They have several season grazing licences around Cerne Abbas and operate a grazing-based lambing system.
“We don’t have buildings to house our sheep, so bad weather can be particularly challenging. The poor weather in March meant we lost a lot more lambs than we’d have liked, with a massive impact on our cashflow.”
But a new partnership to breed high-index rams has offered hope for the future. “We have taken on more grazing and my husband has begun working as a shepherd for our sheep full time. This partnership gives us a clearer vision of where we want to take the business.”
Top of the list for 2025 is securing a farm tenancy. “Having a permanent base and buildings will offer us more security and allow us to continue growing the business.”
Colin Gosden, Dorset
Colin Gosden runs a smallholding near Yetminster in Dorset. Several years ago, he moved away from goats to focus on sheep and cattle and hasn’t looked back.
“The scale at which we were producing goats was no longer viable,” says Colin. “Getting the kids to the weight needed by the butchers was becoming increasingly expensive.
“As a result we made the decision to start increasing sheep numbers. Contrary to popular belief, we’ve found sheep easier to keep than goats. This year we were lucky enough to achieve a 100% lambing rate, which was a first for us.”
As a smallholder, cultivating a good lifestyle is top of the list. “We choose to be smallholders as it is so rewarding. It’s a privilege to provide good products for the local community and getting positive feedback is the cherry on top.”
Continuing to enjoy their smallholding is the priority for 2025.
“We’re fortunate to have found something we love and would like to continue for as long as it’s enjoyable.” Colin Gosden
Richard and Helen Rowe, Cornwall
With their family, Richard and Helen Rowe run a herd of pedigree South Devons on Tregondale Farm near Liskeard.
“2024 has been a challenging but rewarding and successful year for us,” says Richard. “The changeable weather continues to make things tricky. I’m probably an overthinker and I’ve come to expect the unexpected, but this can be helpful in farming!”
Breed Champion at this year’s summer shows. The farm also won the Truro South Devon Cattle Club’s annual herd competition.
“While showing does take up a lot of our time in summer, it is great to receive recognition for everyone’s hard work and to promote the breed.”
The plan for 2025 is to continue investing.
The cattle have had plenty of success this year, with a star performer crowned South Devon Breed Champion and Reserve
“It is important we reinvest in the business to set up future generations. We are focusing on making the farm more efficient and ensuring the best welfare for our livestock. We want to do whatever we can to make life easy for us and the animals.” Richard Rowe
Richard Rowe | Country Girl Media
Applications Open
“The bursary has helped me continue my studies and focus in on my chosen career in the bovine industry.”
Isabella Rhodes, 2023 Cornish Mutual South West Agricultural Student of the Year/Higher Education bursary recipient
Cornish Mutual Young Farmer Bursary applications open
Cornish Mutual is committed to supporting the future of agriculture in the South West and awards bursaries to six outstanding agricultural students each year.
Our student bursaries support the training and development of young people entering the industry and celebrate their enthusiasm for the future of agriculture.
This year both further and higher education students are invited to apply for a Cornish Mutual Young Farmer Bursary to support their studies.
The Higher Education Bursary of £750 is open to any student studying an agriculture-based Level 5 or 6 course at University Centre Somerset and Duchy College.
Further Education Bursaries of £500 are available to students studying an agriculture-based Level 1, 2 or 3 course at Bicton College, Bridgwater & Taunton College (Cannington Campus), Duchy College, and Kingston Maurward College.
In each category, one bursary is awarded per college and students must be enrolled to study during the 2024-2025 academic year.
Isabella Rhodes
In addition, the 2024 Cornish Mutual South West Agricultural Student of the Year will be selected from the bursary recipients.
Applicants are asked to submit either a 500-word essay, 20-image photo essay or 2-minute video or podcast on the following subjects:
• Higher Education bursary: ‘How do you see the future of agriculture, and what role do you hope to play?’
• Further Education bursary: ‘Why I am studying agriculture’
Entries close at midnight on 22nd November 2024.
“The next generation of farmers is crucial to the future of agriculture in the South West. Our Young Farmer Bursaries support the development of young people in the industry, and we are looking forward to once again celebrating their enthusiasm for its future.”
Peter Beaumont, Cornish Mutual Chief Executive Officer
Are you our next bursary winner?
Scan the QR code for more details, or to submit your entry contact: futurefarming@cornishmutual.co.uk
Students are only eligible to receive the bursary once and must state how they intend to spend their money. Cornish Mutual Membership is not required for entry. For successful applicants, Cornish Mutual will either purchase the equipment or pay monies for these items to the college or student as appropriate.
2023 Young Farmer Bursary winners
Henry Matthews Duchy College Lola Strawbridge Kingston Maurward College
Oscar Wallace-Cook Bicton College
Olivia Parker Bridgwater & Taunton College
Zoe Stanbury University Centre Somerset
Isabella Rhodes Duchy College
Understanding Liability Insurance
Public liability
Public liability insurance offers protection if your business is deemed negligent for an incident and a member of the public makes a claim for personal injury or property damage against you.
Cornish Mutual provides public liability insurance as standard even though it is not a legal requirement. As long as your business activity is accurately described to us, it offers clear benefits in the following situations:
• You own business premises visited by members of the public, customers or clients, including holiday lets and camping sites.
• Your business organises events or activities attended by members of the public that you have advised us of.
• You run a business from your home and people visit your home for professional purposes.
• If, in the course of your business activity, there is potential for you to cause personal injury or damage to third party property.
Public liability insurance covers anyone who you interact with as part of your business, apart from employees. As it does not cover employees including any temporary or casual staff, volunteers, students or people on work placements, you may also need employers’ liability insurance.
Employers’ liability
As an employer, you are responsible for protecting the health and safety of your employees during working hours. No matter how careful you are, workplace injuries happen and may result in a claim. In the case of occupational diseases, claims can happen many years down the line.
Although not a mandatory section of all our policies, employers’ liability insurance for most businesses is a legal requirement under the Employers’ Liability Act 1969. It covers the damages and legal costs for which you are legally liable when a current or ex-employee suffers injury or illness while working for your business. In some instances, the policy also covers the cost of legal representation in relation to any HSE prosecution in the event of a serious injury or fatality.
The policy covers anyone working under your instruction:
• Full-time and part-time employees
• Contract, casual and seasonal employees
• Labour-only subcontractors
• Temporary staff, apprentices and volunteers
• People taking part in work experience or training schemes
To ensure you have the appropriate cover in place it is important to disclose all business activity. If you have any questions or would like to discuss the cover you currently have in place please email askus@cornishmutual.co.uk or call 01872 277151.
Helping you make your farm safer
Farming remains one of the most dangerous occupations in Britain with farm accidents having far-reaching effects on all those involved and a financial impact on the farming business. A safe working environment is a fundamental requirement and having health and safety policies in place is central to reducing risks and avoiding accidents.
We hear from one Member who is finding our Farm Health & Safety Service invaluable:
Hamish Bengough runs an organic beef and sheep farm near Axminster. Alongside his permanent staff, he welcomes vulnerable adults and those in care to work on the farm and in the garden, sometimes offering a stepping stone for people integrating back into society.
“As on every farm, there’s plenty going on and many potential hazards. I’d struggled to find the right cover but Cornish Mutual has been extremely helpful, willing to come out and listen to what we need. The team has been very practical giving us a simple-to-use folder specifically put together for the farm, so all the staff are able to use it with our daily visitors. I also value the ongoing support with the six-month review and knowing someone is on the end of a phone.
Our needs are no different to any other farmer but by working with Cornish Mutual I’m confident in welcoming others onto the farm whether to work or through public events, such as Open Farm Sunday and school groups. Cornish Mutual makes it possible.”
What is LOLER?
LOLER is the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998. Enforced by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE), LOLER governs the use of lifting equipment to ensure it is functional, well maintained and safe to use.
The regulations apply to individuals and companies owning, operating or controlling the use of lifting equipment, with the onus of responsibility on the employers.
LOLER covers forklifts, telehandlers, tractor front-loaders (and lifting attachments), along with block and rope hoists. Standalone and vehicle-mounted cranes are also included. LOLER inspections must be carried out every 12 months – or every six months for equipment designed for lifting people –and a record of inspections kept.
Lifting equipment must be used appropriately and operated by those adequately trained. People should only be lifted on work equipment specifically designed for that purpose and never with telehandler buckets, potato boxes, forklift forks or similar.
Adhering to LOLER is not only a legal requirement but helps identify potential hazards and prevent accidents, a fundamental part of workplace health and safety.
For more information about our Farm Health & Safety Service, scan the QR code or call 01872 277151. Alternately email lossprevention@cornishmutual.co.uk or speak to your local Field Advisor.
Farming Focus™ continues to cover what matters
Farming Focus™ has recently finished its third 10-episode series, having explored and discussed the subjects uppermost in farmers’ minds - from genetics to diversification, methane to mob grazing.
In each episode host and farmer Peter Green talks with others in the industry, including many South West farmers sharing their experiences, with a subsequent shorter bonus episode teasing out more of the most pertinent points.
Full of ideas and advice, Peter Green sums up each episode with his ‘showstoppers’ and often asks guests to summarise their thoughts into one ‘top tip’ on whatever’s been discussed.
Farming Focus™ is available via Spotify and Apple podcasts or at www.cornishmutual.co.uk/newsadvice/farming-focus-podcast/.
Kevin and Katie Hoare
Bertie Matthews
Hannah Jones & Ben Thomas
Mark Rees
Abby Allen
Chris Berry
Dan Grist
Healthy farmer, healthy future
Working in agriculture is often solitary, and when compounded by the inherent stress of constant uncertainty, it’s not surprising the industry has high levels of poor mental health.
Speaking on Farming Focus™ alongside FCN ambassador farmer Charles Anyan, Nuffield Scholar and mental wellbeing advocate Chris Manley explained the importance of being in a good headspace when running a business.
“If your mental health is in a better place, you’re going to make better decisions and will be more likely to be consistent with your performance. Farming is an amazing career, but farmers are dealing with more volatility and external factors, and so being resilient is key.” Chris Manley
Getting to know yourself and how you are feeling on a scale of 1 to 10 can be a really useful starting point, according to Chris, who views ‘normal’ as being 6 to 8.
“Whatever the number, it is useful to have an idea of how you can respond to how you are feeling to pick yourself up. This might be going for a walk, going to the gym, or if you are a people person, picking up the phone and having a chat and cultivating relationships with people who are empathetic and can listen.”
When you are in a good mental state this is the time to look after yourself. Introduce protocols for when you are having a bad day and cultivate relationships that can help.
As well as looking after yourself, remember to look out for others. Asking how people are not once but twice is a good place to start, advises Chris. “You can help as a listener by asking ‘would you like me to listen, or would you like me to provide you with a solution or distraction?’”
Organisations offering support with mental health and wellbeing:
• Kooth, RABI’s online wellbeing support service for people in agriculture - https://explore.kooth.com/rabi/
• The Farming Community Network - https://fcn.org.uk
• Samaritans - https://www.samaritans.org
• Mind - https://www.mind.org.uk
Nuffield Scholar
Lincolnshire Arable Farmer
CharlesAnyan
Chris Manley
Farm income: what’s the answer?
Farmers face challenges in generating a fair income due to market fluctuations, weather events and supermarket power.
In this episode of Farming Focus™, guests Professor Matt Lobley from the University of Exeter and Lizard Peninsula farmer Geoff Williams emphasise the need for sustainable farming practices to include economic and social viability.
Acknowledging much that influences farm income is out of a farmer’s control, they highlighted the importance of government and industry recognising their role in ensuring a sustainable future for farming.
Direct selling, increasing farmgate prices and addressing tax policies were all considered.
“We need to treat farmers ethically as human beings and work out how to give them a fair return.”
Professor Matt Lobley
In the second ‘bonus’ episode on farm incomes, Matt and Geoff returned to look further into the complex challenges facing farmers trying to secure a viable farm income.
Discussing the alarming statistics of food insecurity in the UK and the potential long-term consequences of agricultural transition, they suggested that simply expecting consumers to
pay more is unrealistic and highlighted the need to secure fair compensation for the services farmers provide beyond food production.
Episode Showstoppers
1. Farmers are not a homogenous group which influences how situations are experienced by individuals; be mindful of this.
2. Farming is fulfilling but it is not enough; it is and needs to be a business and farmers appreciate this being recognised by others.
3. Change is constant and a process and while being open-minded to this helps, farmers have always had to cope with change and live with it every day.
4. Engaging with consumers helps understanding of how others see farmers and farming.
Cornwall Farmer: Tretharrup Farm
Professor of Rural Resource Management & Co-Director of the Centre for Rural Policy Research, University of Exeter
Matt Lobley
GeoffWilliams
How can I farm livestock beneath the soil as well as on top?
Dung beetles could be a farmer’s best employee, Wiltshire farmer and entomologist Sally-Ann Spence told a series 3 episode of Farming Focus™.
She explained how the hardworking insect introduces organic matter into the soil, making it available for earthworms and other organisms, as well as reducing compaction and aerating the soil through their tunnelling activities.
“If you don’t have livestock below the soil, you can’t support the livestock above it.” Sally-Ann Spence
Healthy soil, with micro-organisms including fungi, microanimals and insects such as dung beetles and earthworms, is crucial for nutrient cycling and water infiltration, fundamental processes for supporting robust plant growth and, consequently, healthy livestock. Sally-Ann also shared how she has developed the soil on her own farm enough to see her spade “dripping with earthworms”.
Speaking alongside Sally-Ann, plant and soil health educator Joel Williams echoed the need to support the organisms living in the soil. “Keeping your soil covered is one of the best things farmers can do, many of the micro-organisms living in the soil like to grow in association with plants,” said Joel.
He encouraged farmers to embrace today’s popular soil health principles: “There’s a reason they’ve become popular. They provide an easy stepping stone and entry point because they are simple and applicable.”
Episode Showstoppers
1. With all farmers needing to farm profitably, focus on the habitat below the ground to increase your output above.
2. Aim to maintain a living root below the ground throughout the year, increasing the diversity of plant species being grown while incorporating more organic matter into the soil and integrating livestock wherever possible.
3. The greatest compaction can be between the ears. An openness to change is critical so learn from others by going to farm walks or joining a cluster group, look at your own soil and start doing something however small.
Dung Beetle Expert, Entomologist and Farmer Plant & Soil Health Educator
Sally-AnnSpence
Joel Williams
Have you applied for SFI?
As all farmers know, by 2027 the direct income support currently received from the government will have ended. It is being replaced by the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI), with the 2024 offer now available. Farmers can apply for management options and capital items to increase the environmental credentials of their food production and promote sustainable land use. Options including soil health, farmland wildlife and nutrient management can be used to help make up the shortfall of income lost by the reduction in BPS, while simultaneously increasing sustainability on farm.
Although the SFI comes with additional costs, such as paying for soil sampling services or an advisor to produce nutrient management plans, there is generally a margin in every SFI action, not to mention the direct improvement in efficiency resulting from these activities.
Our regenerative farming consultant partners Terrafarmer can help farmers implement many of the SFI options, such as the popular SAM1 (assess soil, produce a soil management plan and test soil organic matter) and PRF1 (variable rate application of nutrients).
Terrafarmer’s services are not just limited to SFI delivery, but also for proposal and application, delivering independent advice on managing the agricultural transition, while becoming more profitable and sustainable.
To find out more about how Terrafarmer can help, contact your local Field Advisor or the team at Terrafarmer on 01347 844132 or email talktous@terrafarmer.co.uk
Winter tips
Each season brings its own weather conditions and related challenges, but winter more than most. Now is the time to think about the months ahead and to check you have the right cover in place for any damage incurred.
Is your oil tank ready for winter?
When properly maintained, an oil tank can last 10 to 20 years but regular maintenance is essential to prevent costly and potentially dangerous leaks.
Ignoring warning signs can lead to significant problems and environmentally damaging leaks, however large or small. If your tank has a secondary containment system (bund), don’t forget to check this is in good condition as it helps prevent spills reaching the environment.
Annual maintenance with an OFTEC-qualified heating engineer is also recommended. Detecting problems early helps ensure your tank stays safe and functional throughout winter and saves potentially costly repairs or replacements.
If you spot an oil leak….
• Act fast. Clear the area, keeping children and pets well away.
• Switch off your tank to cut the oil supply and prevent further leakage.
• Place a container under the leak and use absorbent materials to contain the spread.
• Report the leak to your insurance provider and notify your local authorities if oil enters drains or waterways.
• Put any oil-soaked items in a container and dispose of them correctly.
Avoiding frozen pipes
When the chill of winter sets in, the last thing you want to deal with is the frustration of a frozen pipe. It’s a common issue that can lead to pipes bursting and costly damage if left unattended. Here are some simple tips to help you minimise damage and stay in control.
To avoid the potentially serious damage caused by frozen pipes, take some simple steps now to reduce the risk.
• Check pipes for leaks or dripping joints.
• Lag pipes, tanks and taps in vulnerable, unheated areas with insulating foam.
• Locate your stopcock. It is often under the kitchen sink but can be elsewhere, so check where it is now before winter begins.
• Has your boiler and heating system been serviced this year? If not, book your annual service with a registered heating engineer.
• If you have a property left unoccupied during winter, consider turning the water off and draining the system. Alternately, leave the heating on low around 15°C to prevent pipes freezing in very cold weather.
What to do if you have a frozen pipe?
• Turn off your inside stopcock.
• Drain the system as quickly as possible by opening all taps, turning them off again once the water stops running.
• Thaw pipes out slowly using hot water bottles or towels soaked in hot water, turning on nearby cold taps to relieve pressure on the pipe. Never use a blow torch.
• For gas-related issues, British Gas advises the problem with modern condensing boilers is likely to involve the condensate pipe - the plastic pipe leading outside from the boiler. Check to see if it’s frozen and thaw as above.
• Contact a plumber if you need further help.
If you need to make a claim due to an escape of water call 01872 277151.
Managing holiday lets during winter
With many holiday properties occupied less often during the winter months, don’t let them become ‘out of sight, out of mind’.
Safeguard your property by carrying out some simple checks. Look out for loose roof tiles and evidence of damp inside the building. Clear drains and gutters to prevent blockages which may go unseen if the property is visited less often. Frozen pipes are also a common problem in unoccupied holiday lets. Follow our advice on p.18.
Now is also a good time to check door and window locks are in good repair, as well as security lighting if fitted, as crime in rural areas often increases as daylight hours decrease.
While protecting your property from fire is a year-round requirement, some of the annual jobs are more easily done when the property is empty. Fire regulations require chimneys to be swept annually, and any smoke/heat alarms up for
renewal must be replaced. Fire extinguishers should also be serviced annually and with electrics a common cause of fire, check for signs of damages to sockets, switches and cables.
Also stay up to date with the latest fire regulations. As we reported last year, significant changes were made to the regulations affecting owners of all small guest-paying accommodation, including holiday lets, shepherd huts and glamping venues, and more are expected imminently.
For a detailed fire assessment and practical support on an on-going basis, find out more about our Farm Health & Safety Service by contacting our loss prevention team on 01872 277151 or email lossprevention@cornishmutual. co.uk. Alternatively, scan the QR code or speak to your local Field Advisor.
Farming through winter
Farming through poor winter weather is challenging, but being prepared can help you stay safe.
Strong winds
• Have a look around the farm and secure anything which could be moved in a gale. Look out for loose roof tiles or poorly secured corrugated metal sheeting.
• Remove dead branches from trees before they fall.
• Move machinery into a secure building where possible.
Flooding
• Create a flood plan if you’re near a watercourse or vulnerable to flooding. Start by identifying what is at risk including livestock, machinery, tools, chemicals and fuels.
• Find safe refuges for anything at risk, whether on your farm or elsewhere.
• If you have livestock, think about taking animals to your highest ground.
Snow and ice
• Insulate exposed water pipes and ensure alternative water sources are available if pipes and water troughs freeze.
• Move livestock to more sheltered areas or inside if possible, making additional feed available to animals remaining outside.
• If heavy snow is forecast, avoid working alone or in isolated areas where possible and always have warm clothing, food, water, a phone and a shovel with you.
Winter vehicle safety
Farm vehicles are built to tackle difficult terrain and poor weather but need to be well maintained to ensure they don’t let you down when you need them most.
• Keep up with vehicle maintenance and servicing. Check tyres, lights, engine oil, radiator fluid and wiper blades regularly.
• Be prepared and have the right equipment on hand; a torch, de-icer, shovel and tow rope as well as a basic survival and first aid kit.
• Always have some emergency provisions with you including warm waterproof clothing, sturdy footwear, food and water - and a phone charger!
Rural Crime Prevention
Police teams across the South West have seen a rise in the theft of quad bikes and agricultural trailers. Prevention is paramount. To help keep your essential farm equipment safe, follow this security advice from the Avon & Somerset Police Rural Crime Team.
Theft Prevention Checklist for All-terrain Vehicles (ATV):
Keep your ATV/quad bike in a lockable building. Remove the keys and keep them in a secure location out of view and not hidden in the vehicle.
Cover the windows of the outbuilding in which the vehicle is stored.
Consider using a device that locks the vehicle brakes to prevent it being moved when stored.
Physically secure your machine using suitable locking devices and fixed ground anchors secured to the floor using heavy-duty security chains and padlocks.
Consider fitting GPS tracking devices.
Theft Prevention Checklist for Trailers:
Secure your trailers when not in use with a combination of wheel clamps, hitch locks and ground anchors.
Consider chaining multiple items together when not in use and securing to a solid structure or ground anchor with a high-quality chain and padlock.
If the trailer is not being used for a prolonged period, consider removing the wheels and storing these in a separate location.
Making your property less desirable
To make your farm or property less desirable to an offender we recommend using security products compliant with the appropriate British Standard. In addition, look for products that carry the Sold Secure or Secured by Design accreditation. These products have been tested and proven to resist a considerable level of attack. Suppliers of suitable accredited products can be found here: www.securedbydesign.com and www.soldsecure.com
Having all ATVs and trailers marked with a forensic marking kit can help to prevent theft. Make sure to record serial numbers and take photographs for reference. If a machine or trailer is stolen, a photo can help aid in its recovery.
Have you signed up to our Member Area? Cornish Mutual Members get access to a range or deals and discounts, including 15% off SelectaDNA Asset Marking Kit*.
To access Member Benefits login to the Member area today! Visit https:// my.cornishmutual.co.uk or scan the QR code.
Get 15% off SelectaDNA Asset Marking kits*
Protect your assets today and get a 15% discount when you purchase a SelectaDNA Asset Marking Kit. The forensic marking system is quick, cost-effective and reduces theft by up to 83%. Each kit contains a unique forensic code which can link property to a location or owner, and thieves to a crime scene.
*Terms and conditions apply to all benefits. See website for details. Offers subject to change without notice. Please note the 15% discount is applicable for all SelectaDNA Asset Marking Kits, excluding stickers and signage. To read the full Terms and Conditions please visit https://www.selectadna.co.uk/terms-conditions. Cornish Mutual Member Benefits is managed and run on behalf of Cornish Mutual by Parliament Hill Ltd.
Summer Shows Round-Up
Over the summer we enjoyed a busy show season, attending 22 events across the South West. From Stithians to Frome, we were delighted to catch up with so many Members around the region.
A huge thank you to everyone who visited our stands. We can’t wait to see you at our future events. We would also like to extend our thanks to all those who donated at our stands to help raise funds for the South West Air Ambulance Trusts. Turn the page to see how much we’ve managed to raise!
#farm24
In August we celebrated #farm24, a 24-hour campaign run by Farmers Guardian to champion agriculture. In support of our farming Members, and to showcase their dedication and hard work, we created a #farm24 photo frame. At the Okehampton show, Members and the Cornish Mutual team used the frame to capture their 24 hours in farming.
We have a variety of events and farm walks lined up throughout the year. For more information scan the QR code or visit our website at www.cornishmutual.co.uk/ events-and-farm-walks/
Charity & Community news
Cornwall Wildlife Trust
In August, members of the Cornish Mutual team participated in a dedicated volunteer day to support Cornwall Wildlife Trust. Our team focused on managing the local environment by cutting down bracken. This crucial work helps to promote the growth of other plant species and enhances overall plant diversity in the area.
South West Air Ambulance Trusts
The life-saving service provided by South West air ambulances is vital for Members living and working in remote areas. At the summer county shows, we held collections for the region’s three Air Ambulance Trusts: Devon, Cornwall and Dorset & Somerset, and are delighted to have raised more than £3,000. Thank you to everyone who donated and helped us in supporting this very worthy cause.
New exclusive Member benefits
As a Cornish Mutual Member, you get exclusive access to a variety of Member Benefits, including deals and discounts on everyday essentials, motoring, travel, and more. Explore all our Member Benefits have to offer by logging into the Member Area or registering today. Scan the QR code below or call 01872 277151.
Looking to save money on your weekly food shop? Make your money go further at Morrisons.
Through our shopping partner, Gift Card Savings, Cornish Mutual Members can access discounted gift cards and e-gifts in UK-wide supermarket Morrisons*.
Gift cards are a great way to save hundreds of pounds on groceries, clothing and technology.
Find out more in the Member Benefits area of the website https:// my.cornishmutual.co.uk/
Save on a National Trust gift card
Through Cornish Mutual Member Benefits, you also have access to 10% off a National Trust gift card.
The ultimate in flexibility, a National Trust gift card can be used towards a new membership, an entry fee, a treat in a National Trust café or gift shop or even a National Trust holiday.
Explore historic homes, beautiful coastlines and the great outdoors at more than 500 places across England, Wales and Northern Ireland or enjoy experiencing somewhere closer to home.
From autumn colour walks at Stourhead and the history of Killerton, to the beautiful coastal ruins of Wheal Coates and spectacular cliffs at Hive Beach, the National Trust offers something for everyone right across our region.
In today’s digital world, staying safe online is more important than ever. Taking steps to safeguard your home and loved ones can give peace of mind and prevent costly upset. If you’re concerned about online scams, bank fraud, social media hacking or receiving suspicious emails and text messages, we’re here to help.
Cornish Mutual offers its Members 24/7 access to the Cyber Assistance Helpline, provided by the cyber protection specialists at Cyberscout, a TransUnion® brand. This helpline delivers essential guidance and assistance around the clock, helping you safeguard your personal and financial information.
As the festive season approaches, cybercriminals often ramp up their efforts, taking advantage of increased online shopping. Phishing scams, fake websites and fraudulent offers all become more common. The Cyber Assistance Helpline can assist you in navigating these risks, offering tips to ensure your online shopping is safe and secure.
Cyber Assistance Helpline Call 0808 189 2300. If you have any questions or concerns about an online issue, call anytime for support. They are there to help.
Stay safe shopping online
Be mindful where you shop
Read reviews from people or organisations you trust. Emails or texts advertising deals might include links to fraudulent websites. If you’re uncertain, avoid clicking links.
Use a credit card
Paying with a credit card provides additional security, as any compromised payment details won’t impact your primary bank account. Consider using payment platforms like PayPal, Apple Pay or Google Pay. These services allow you to authorise payments without disclosing your details.
Only provide necessary information
Only give essential information indicated by an asterisk (*) when buying online. Avoid creating an account on an online store. If the website suggests storing your payment details for faster checkouts, avoid doing so unless you plan to buy from it regularly.
Need help or advice, call our Cyber Assistance Helpline*
Available to Members 24/7. This service provides proactive advice on any cyber-related incidents or concerns.
*The Cornish Mutual Cyber Assistance Helpline is provided by the cyber protection specialists Cyberscout, a TransUnion® brand.
Join our Online Research Panel and have your say
As a mutual, we’re owned by you our Members and we pride ourselves on doing what’s right for you.
Our Online Research Panel helps us do that by testing out new ideas, listening to your feedback and finding out what interests you most.
You choose when you’d like to be involved and each online survey is kept as short as possible.
To join our Online Research Panel, please email marketing@cornishmutual.co.uk
Market Offices
Come and visit us at your local market
Our expert team of Field Insurance Advisors are on hand at our market offices to welcome Members and assist with a wide range of enquiries. The team can help with paying for policies and arranging future visits, as well as general enquiries and more specific issues.
You’ll find us at our local Market Offices on the following days:
