STUDENT FARMER - SEPTEMBER 2022

S &Y F A M B A S S A D O R TA K E OV E R E D I T I O N

The magazine for young farmers

September 2022

MENTAL HEALTH

Strike the right balance

Friendship, allyship and ambassadorship

DIVERSIFICATION

Spreading the risk on your farm 1702928.indd 1

13/09/2022 12:04:42

ALL-NEW, ALL-ELECTRIC FIAT 500 UP TO 199 MILE RANGE †

ACCESS EXCLUSIVE OFFERS WITH THE FIAT PRIVILEGE PROGRAM* Fiat UK is delighted to offer exclusive discounts to eligible NFU members* across its model range, as well as exceptional deals on new Jeep, Alfa Romeo, Abarth and Fiat Professional vehicles with the FCA Privilege Program.

Offering a wide choice of models to suit any budget, the scheme provides a range of finance options to make your new vehicle purchase even more affordable.

For more information visit fcaprivilegeprogram.co.uk

These figures were obtained after the battery had been fully charged. The New Fiat 500 is a battery electric vehicle requiring mains electricity for charging. There is a new test for fuel consumption, CO2 and electric range figures. The electric range shown was achieved using the new test procedure.Figures shown are for comparability purposes. Only compare electric range figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors including the starting charge of the battery, accessories fitted (postregistration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. †

*Member eligibility rules and terms and conditions apply. All vehicles offered are subject to availability. The Privilege Program prices include VAT, road fund licence, first registration fee, delivery and number plates. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles UK Ltd reserves the right to alter, amend or withdraw prices and offers without notice. The Privilege offers cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers or incentives, including retail, Affinity and Privilege Program consumer incentives.

2

1546846.indd 2

September 2022

13/09/2022 11:58:02

Contents

12

26

32

06 08 10 12 16 18 19 22 23 24 25 26 28 29 30 32 35 36 38

Country to town and back again Are you up for the S&YFAP challenge?

Sign up for free NFU membership Pride in our profession Getting that farm/life balance Branching out by yourself Accessibility is key The science in soil Take a break with a book Ways to be green on farm Profitable and sustainable Supplying strawberries Upping your social media game Routes into agriculture Don't get scurvy Why should I diversify?

Putting yourself out there Studying shoppers Succession tips

S&YFAP TAKEOVER PUBLISHED BY: NFU, Agriculture House, Stoneleigh Park, Stoneleigh, Warwickshire, CV8 2TZ FILLED WITH WORDS BY: Orla McIlduff, Gareth Staples-Jones, Mike Wilkins, Bizza Walters, Rebecca Wilson, Mary Raymond, Erin McNaught, Jess Langton, Emily Brown, Dan Hawes, Thomas Saunders, Edward Lord, Hannah Buisman, Sophie Bould-Lynch, Sian Davies, Maisie Bruce, Claire Hartry, Mark Weaver DESIGNED BY: John Cottle COVER IMAGE BY: John Cottle TO ADVERTISE, CONTACT: Alan Brown alan.brown@nfu.org.uk CONTACT: studentfarmer@nfu.org.uk /StudentFarmer @studentfarmer @studentfarmer

It's been quite the summer hasn't it?

Between the hottest harvest we've ever known, the passing of Queen Elizabeth II and the instalment of a new Prime Minister, a lot can happen between editions of this magazine.

Luckily, I've had the best team of writers and editors I could have hoped for when pulling together this edition of Student Farmer; our NFU Student & Young Farmer Ambassadors! They've each chosen to write about things that they're passionate about, meaning this edition is jam-packed with real-life farming stories from across England and Wales.

You might notice our joyous Pride-themed front cover – Emily and Mike have teamed up to, quite literally, fly the Pride flag for our industry. Read all about why it's important to stand up and be counted, either as an ally or as an LGBTQ+ community member, on page 12.

Speaking of feeling proud, it always amazes me to see the innovation happening on farms around the country. This issue sees our ambassadors talk net zero agri-practices, diversification ideas and even the strawberry supply chain in their articles. I've learned a huge amount and have thoroughly enjoyed reading every single piece, and I'm sure you will too!

Finally, I've not forgotten that it's the start of a new school, college and university year for a lot of you. If you're looking for something to cook to impress your mates in halls, check out Bizza's lamb recipe on page 30.

Have a brilliant term, and if you fancy a challenge in 2023, find out how to become a Student & Young Farmer Ambassador on page 8 – it could be your incredible story I'm reading this time next year!

Orla McIlduff Editor, Student Farmer September 2022

1647597.indd 3

3

13/09/2022 11:58:19

LEAD THE WAY www.sruc.ac.uk/opendays

For more information phone: 0800 269 453

Find us on Facebook

@srucstudy SRUC is a charity registered in Scotland: SC003712

VALE TRAINING SERVICES LTD

FIRST FOR RURAL AND LAND BASED TRAINING

A wide range of skills training all levels catered for

Vale Training offer courses covering

Health & Safety • Skills • Management All of which can be tailored to meet the client’s personal needs

Low instructor to trainee ratios Lantra, BASIS, City and Guilds & NPORS registered NPTC assessments available

For more information contact us at any of the following

Tel: 01296 612201 Email: info@valetraining.co.uk www.valetraining.co.uk

1546850.indd 4

13/09/2022 11:58:21

Who will you unearth?

Join Muddy Matches; the UK's original, award-winning home of farmer dating and country-life love.

Meet, match, date genuine country singles.

MUDDYMATCHES.CO.UK September 2022

1546852.indd 5

5

13/09/2022 11:58:25

S&YFAP

Starting conversations

It was farm to city and back again in 24 hours for the NFU Student & Young Farmer Ambassadors as they tackled the tough issues in farming on a recent trip John Cottle

T

he NFU Student & Young Farmer Ambassadors took time out of their busy schedules for a visit to Hampshire and London in May. NFU Next Generation Forum member Flavian Obiero initially hosted the group on farm in Hampshire, before James Gray MP gave the ambassadors a guided tour of the Palace of Westminster.

Flavian reflected on meeting the ambassadors by saying: “I thoroughly enjoyed showing the ambassadors around our farm. It’s always good to share whatever little knowledge we’ve got with each other. I also enjoyed our equality, diversity and inclusion chat after lunch.

The future is definitely bright with this Student & Young Farmer cohort about!”

NFU public affairs graduate Neeve McGinty welcomed the group to the NFU’s Westminster office before leading them to meet Mr Gray. She said: “After the tour, there was a 90-minute Q&A where the ambassadors were able to learn more about how the agriculture industry can engage with politics to create change.

The group not only asked good questions to learn more about agri-politics, but landed farming messages in a professional and politically sensitive way, which is a real skill to have. You wouldn’t have known that for the majority, it was their first time meeting an MP. “There were productive conversations surrounding food security, ELMs, Farming

6

1647491.indd 6

Rules for Water, net zero, supply chains, diversity within agriculture and support for new entrants. The group candidly reflected on their own experiences and highlighted what support they need as the next generation of British farmers.”

Following the meeting, ambassador

Mike Wilkins (who farms in Mr Gray’s constituency) invited him to visit his farm, and this was met with enthusiasm.

These farm visits provide another opportunity to build strong relationships with MPs in support of the NFU’s political lobbying.

Bizza Walters West Midlands

We had the most fantastic two days on our trip to Hampshire and to the Houses of Parliament with James Gray MP, as well as the NFU Westminster office.

Hearing Flavian’s story really solidified to me how important equality, diversity and inclusivity is within this industry, to ensure we can all work together to produce the best quality food through a sustainable supply chain. This led on to conversations with James Gray MP on the importance of food security and protecting British agriculture, especially during such uncertain times with prices rising by the minute.

As always, I am so grateful to work alongside this wonderful group of NFU Student & Young Farmer Ambassadors.

They are an inspiring group of individuals from all over the UK, and it’s great to have such in-depth discussions about all sorts of topics within agriculture.

Thank you to the NFU for hosting a very memorable trip, and as always I can’t wait for what else is in store.

September 2022

13/09/2022 12:05:04

S&YFAP

Mike Wilkins South West

I had a truly wonderful time on a wide-ranging trip with my fellow NFU Student & Young Farmer Ambassadors!

Firstly, we visited Flavian Obiero, near Basingstoke. It was fascinating learning about his methodologies for running his mostly outdoor pig enterprise, especially given the current climate for the pig industry in the UK. Flavian’s attitude and approach towards how he runs his business was incredibly inspiring and refreshing, not to mention his evident abundance of knowledge and enthusiasm.

With Flavian we were fortunate to have an open discussion as a group about inclusivity and diversity within the agricultural industry.

This is a topic that our industry often sadly struggles to embrace.

Listening to the differing experiences of people within our group was humbling, emotive, and at times upsetting. As a queer man working in agriculture, I have experienced a degree of discrimination that I hope we can eradicate in the near future; but to do this we must proactively confront discrimination when we see it.

On the second day of our trip, as well as visiting the NFU’s London office, we were very fortunate indeed to have a tour of the Palace of Westminster. While inside Parliament, we visited some fantastically prestigious locations, the most armpinching of which being the House of Commons and the House of Lords (sadly we didn’t get to bang our fists on the dispatch box, nor sit in the speaker’s chair and yell ‘order’!).

Additionally, we were able to spend more than an hour in Committee Room 14 questioning James Gray (my local MP here in North Wiltshire) about everything that the government is doing (or not doing) to support and facilitate farmers and our industry to live up to the full productivity and environmental potential that we harbour.

September 2022

1647491.indd 7

7

13/09/2022 12:05:23

S&YFAP

Fancy a challenge?

It's that time of year again when the team is getting ready to recruit its newest bunch of NFU Student & Young Farmer Ambassadors

WHAT IS IT?

The Student & Young Farmer Ambassador Programme is a year-long series of events designed to give Student & Young Farmer members under the age of 27 the opportunity to impact the future of the agricultural industry by working with the NFU and to put their own stamp on the future of British farming.

WHY TAKE PART?

• • • • • • • • •

This is an opportunity to represent the younger generation of farmers within the UK's biggest farming membership organisation Create long standing relationships with like-minded people from all farming sectors around the country Experience new aspects of the agricultural industry, from horticulture to dairy Help the farming industry become more progressive and break boundaries Be at the heart of political change as it unfolds It will be an amazing asset to add to your CV Promote yourself, your college or your business locally and nationally Increase your knowledge of the inner workings of the NFU You will receive training to enable you to write for national publications, present to schools, speak to the media and to engage with MPs

WHAT’S THE APPLICATION CRITERIA?

• • • • • • •

Be an NFU Student & Young Farmer member (it’s free! Sign up at NFUonline.com/student) Aged between 18 and 26 years (on 1 January 2023) To be located in England or Wales Have a vested interest in farming and rural affairs Available to attend all events with confirmed dates (see timetable, right) Have an interest in speaking to the media or writing content for various NFU publications Be committed to promoting the values of inclusivity and kindness in the industry

8

1647514.indd 8

WHAT DOES IT COST?

The NFU will ensure that the programme is free for participants, and that ambassadors are not left out of pocket.

All food, overnight stays and travel expenses will be covered as long as participants attend all events.

WHEN DO APPLICATIONS OPEN?

Applications are open between 31 August and 31 October 2022.

Following a first-stage application form, successful candidates will be invited to a final-stage interview in November 2022.

READY TO APPLY?

Visit NFUonline.com/Ambassadors to get your application in!

September 2022

13/09/2022 13:20:19

S&YFAP

INCLUSIVITY PLEDGE We believe the more diversity within agriculture, the more innovative and sustainable the future of farming will be.

In line with the NFU’s value of inclusivity, the Student & Young Farmer Ambassador Programme has always welcomed applicants from different cultures, backgrounds and perspectives. We especially welcome applications from people who feel their community has, so far, been underrepresented in the agriculture industry or in the S&YFAP group, be that in relation to (but not limited to) their race, colour, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression.

Timeline January 2023:

Two-day induction programme, held at NFU HQ, Stoneleigh

February 2023:

Attend NFU Conference across two days at the ICC in Birmingham, including attending political sessions, workshops, sector breakouts, formal dinner and an overnight stay

March 2023:

Spend a day with your regional colleagues to learn about what happens on a regional and local level

April 2023:

Visit the NFU’s external affairs team in Westminster and go on a tour of the Houses of Parliament

May 2023:

Help to guest-edit the NFU Student & Young Farmer Takeover Edition of Student Farmer magazine

June to August 2023:

Represent the NFU at agricultural shows and events during the summer

September 2023:

Support the NFU’s Back British Farming Day in lobbying government to see the value of British food and farming

November 2023:

Represent the British agricultural industry at Lord Mayor’s Show in London, including an overnight stay the night before

January 2024:

Handover to next cohort of ambassadors Timetable is subject to change, and events may be removed, rescheduled or changed. Specific dates will be confirmed at a later stage.

What do other ambassadors think?

Thomas Saunders

East Anglia representative, 2021/22 “I hoped the NFU Student and Young Farmer programme would be insightful, fun and beneficial, but it has far exceeded my expectations. As ambassadors, we have become not just a group of people interested in the future of farming, but great friends too. The trips have been fantastic and the opportunity to attend the NFU’s Summer Reception in the House of Commons was the icing on the cake for this fantastic programme.

I cannot thank the NFU enough for this amazing opportunity. If you are in doubt about whether to apply or not, then just do it! ”

Zoe Legg

South West representative, 2020/21 “I would say the biggest thing the Student & Young Farmer Ambassador Programme has given me is confidence. I feel like it has given me a valid voice within the industry and encouraged me to share my views and opinions on elements of the agricultural industry that will affect my future.”

Erin McNaught

NFU Cymru respresentative, 2021/22 “The Student & Young Farmer Ambassador Programme has given me a huge insight into the dynamic world of agriculture. We've visited many exciting places, such as the Houses of Parliament, we've met some very influential people and we have also been given the support and opportunity to continue on our career journey in the industry. But most importantly, I'm proud to be in a little community of like-minded ambassadors that I know I can always call upon.”

Eveey Hunter

East Anglia representative, 2020/21 “The Student & Young Farmer Ambassador Programme has led me to where I am today, starting my first term chairing the NFU Next Generation Forum. I will be forever grateful for the opportunities presented to me, namely sharing my opinions through interviews and articles, as well as giving me a huge confidence boost in using my voice to promote British farming and all the issues, difficulties and challenges that come with it.”

September 2022

1647514.indd 9

9

13/09/2022 13:20:49

Sign up

FREE STUFF?

The magazine for

May 2022

LIFTING THE LID ON PARLIAMEN T How you can

influence government decis ions

CRISIS IN UKRAINE

NFU Student & Young Farmer membership is free to students and YFC members. It allows you to have a say and to contribute towards the future of agriculture, and you will benefit from access to experts in policy, food and farming, plus bonus perks!

Join the largest and most influential farming association and receive: • Student Farmer magazine and British Farmer & Grower or Farming Wales magazine delivered to your door • The latest news and briefings from our policy experts in NFU Bulletin and sector-specific and regional e-newsletters • Discounted member rates to attend NFU Conference and other events • Access to member-only content on NFUonline and the NFU App with a unique login • 10% saving on B+E Trailer Training • Welfare of Animals in Transport test for £35 (+VAT) • 15% off airport parking and hotels with APH • Savings on Dickies Workwear online • Huge savings on Merlin Entertainment (Alton Towers, Thorpe Park and more) • Save up to 25% on ATV helmets and safety clothing from Spada

young farmers

What's happenin g, how farming is affecte d and what the NFU is doing

#NFU22

Behind the scen es at NFU Conference 2022

Beyond advocacy What's the nex

t step in standi ng up for the future of far ming?

001_SF_MAY22

FINAL.indd 1

12/04/2022 12:32:51

SCAN THE QR CODE OR VISIT NFUONLINE.COM TO JOIN

TRACTORS FOR HIRE New Holland T7.210 From

£455 per Week

BOOK NOW

DAVISON HIRE 10

1648285.indd 10

YEW TREE FARM, A5, CRACKLEY BANK, SHIFNAL, TF11 8QT EMAIL: SALES@DAVISON-FORKLIFT.CO.UK TEL: 01952 915060 A MALCOLM HARRISON COMPANY

September 2022

13/09/2022 11:59:35

Are you ready to lead in food and fresh produce?

Are you a highly motivated problem solver with strong leadership potential? Then you will relish the challenge of MDS, a graduate programme like no other.

Over two years you will take on roles with real responsibility in four different companies, whilst also studying for a Level 5 Leadership & Management qualification. This will stretch you beyond most other graduate schemes, giving you accountability from day one but with the support and training you need to succeed.

Discover more at www.mds-ltd.co.uk

If you think you’re ready, contact us now.

Visit www.mds-ltd.co.uk to apply.

Follow us on social media: September 2022

1546864.indd 11

11

13/09/2022 11:59:39

Pride

Farming with Pride

Editor Orla McIlduff speaks to NFU Student and Young Farmer Ambassadors Mike Wilkins and Emily Brown about Pride 2022 John Cottle (main image) and Howard Barlow (pride images) Farming’s presence was felt when NFU Student & Young Farmer Ambassadors Emily Brown and Mike Wilkins joined three other members from charity Agrespect in attending Manchester Pride this summer. They were also joined by ally and fellow ambassador, Gareth Staples-Jones.

Emily says: “We are proud to work with Agrespect, an organisation which promotes diversity and inclusion in the countryside. The aim is to demonstrate that the countryside and rural careers can be fun, safe and welcoming places for everyone, regardless of gender identity, ethnicity or sexual orientation.

“It should never be forgotten that Pride is a protest (there is still a significant amount of progress to be made) but also an opportunity to celebrate diversity and inclusion as well as remembering those who have bravely fought over the years to make change happen. The Stonewall Riots in New York in 1969 acted as a catalyst for the gay liberation movement; the first Pride Protest in the UK took place in 1972 in London.”

I was lucky enough to catch up with Mike and Emily after their exciting weekend, and here’s what they had to say:

12

1701951.indd 12

What does it mean to have a farming presence at Pride?

Mike: This was my third Pride event, and at each one I have been overwhelmed by the love, joy and acceptance embodied by all those present. Particularly when working in rural/farming environments, I often feel that I have to filter or stifle the queerer aspects of myself. In representing the NFU at Manchester Pride, these two aspects of my life collided in a positive way, which was incredibly liberating. It felt like real progress, happening in real time.

Emily: It’s incredible to be able to chat about our collective love and passion for agriculture, while all standing for acceptance and inclusion.

Why is Pride still needed today?

Emily: Pride is an opportunity for those in the LGBTQ+ community and allies to come together and stand up for change while also celebrating the progress that has been made.

Mike: Pride is one of the very few places I feel I can truly be wholeheartedly and unabashedly myself. I hope that one day I will feel that way in all situations.

The fact that this is currently a long way from reality is precisely why Pride is still so vital. We mustn’t forget that being

LGBTQ+ is still criminal in 69 countries, and punishable by death in 10!

What does Agrespect mean to you?

Mike: Agrespect has brought me so much reassurance in knowing that there are so many fellow LGBTQ+ people working and thriving within agriculture. It also continues to open my eyes to how many queer people are still really struggling in agriculture, and hence has such an import role.

Emily: Agrespect was a life-saver for me when I was struggling to deal with my sexuality. It was incredibly reassuring to read stories on their website about the journey of other people from the countryside and their journeys of accepting who they are. I felt that I could really identify and relate with others, which helped me in my journey of accepting and being comfortable with my sexual orientation.

September 2022

13/09/2022 12:00:07

Pride

AN ALLY'S VIEW

NFU Student and Young Farmer Ambassador Gareth Staples-Jones went along to Pride as an ally.

“It was great seeing Mike and Emily at Pride!

It’s vital the NFU continues to support and raise awareness for our LGBTQ+ farmers and growers – our industry can be very progressive at times, however in some areas it feels like we’re still catching up, and one of those areas is being accepting and inclusive. Mike and Emily are incredible farmers and incredible champions for the LGBTQ+ community.”

What does allyship mean and why do we need it?

Emily: An ally is someone who supports more marginalised groups. Allies have one of the most powerful and influential voices to create a platform for activism and drive change; those in the LGBTQ+ community cannot make large enough changes on their own without the support of others.

Mike: Allies play such a vital role in making sure that queer people feel welcome, safe and valued within any community. Everyone needs to build up and support one another’s rights and freedoms, regardless of whether you yourself are directly affected by them – that is true allyship!

What can people do to be an ally?

Emily: The charity Stonewall lists five ways you can become a better ally: Familiarise yourself with the language, educate yourself on the history of LGBTQ+ activism, discover the challenges facing the LGBTQ+ community today, get involved in the community/show your support and stand up for what you believe in.

For more information on the history of Pride, visit www.stonewall.org.uk

Mike: Call out homophobic language and behaviour, for example using the word ‘gay’ as a derogatory term, regardless of whether or not there’s an LGBTQ+ person present.

Consider adding your pronouns to your social media profiles and/or email signature.

Have you seen changes in the industry in recent years?

Emily: The main change I’ve seen has been that more people are willing to talk about issues and equality, diversity and inclusion are being more widely discussed. However, we are still a long way behind the progress made in other sectors.

Mike: Positive change is happening – five years ago I don’t think this article would be published, for example! I think more people are willing to have open conversations around topics of diversity and inclusivity, with more acknowledging the vast benefits of both on society and

communities, including agriculture.

Encouragingly, I think that young people are at the forefront of these advancements.

What do you want the agricultural industry to look like going forward?

Mike: A diverse mix of people and backgrounds, more closely representative of the wider society that we feed and support. For agriculture to be at its best, we need the best minds working, and there is no single mould for the best people.

Emily: I want it to look like an inclusive industry which celebrates and embraces equality and diversity, where we value people on the quality of their work rather than any other attribute.

What is your advice for anyone who is struggling with their sexuality?

Mike: Firstly, remember that it’s okay to question your sexuality – in fact it’s more than okay, it’s right and it’s valid. There is no right or wrong; you are who you are and figuring that out is a wonderful (and terrifying) thing! Don’t forget that there are lots people out there who want to help, be that friends, family and colleagues, or organisations such as The Gay Farmer Helpline, Agrespect and the NFU. Emily: Social media and the internet can be great places to start. There are loads of resources online; for example, stories on the Agrespect website and materials available from Stonewall. Podcasts which cover coming out and stories from those in the LGBTQ+ community are widely available, such as Out by the comedian Suzi Ruffell.

For more information on equality, diversity and inclusion in agriculture, visit www.agrespect.com September 2022

1701951.indd 13

13

13/09/2022 12:00:21

Myfuture

DERBYSHIRE LANDSKILLS

(INCORPORATING DERBYSHIRE LAND-BASED TRAINING AND ASSESSMENT COMMITTEE & OCKBROOK TRAINING SERVICES) Registered Charity No 505745 NPTC City & Guilds Centre No 741174 Telephone or Text 01623 812641/07970415211 Email jackie.twilley@btinternet.com Website www.ockbrooktraining.net & www.derbyshirelandskills.org.uk

PROVIDER OF QUALITY LANDBASED TRAINING SINCE 1975 CITY & GUILDS NPTC CERTIFICATES OF COMPETENCE AND LANTRA AWARDS SAFE USE OF PESTICIDES SAFE USE OF CHAINSAWS TRANSPORT OF ANIMALS TRACTOR DRIVING, SHEEP DIPS, VETERINARY MEDICINES, FORKLIFT TRUCK & TELESCOPIC HANDLER, ATV’S. BRUSHCUTTERS/TRIMMERS, BRUSHWOOD CHIPPERS, MOWERS, MOLE CONTROL AND MANY MORE AGRICULTURAL & BUSINESS MANAGEMENT CONSERVATION LEGISLATION AND TECHNICAL SUBJECTS Enterprise Groups for Arable Crops and Vegetables also available

If you’re leaving sixth form or college, take a look at the Foundation and Honours Degrees available at University Centre Myerscough.

There’s a great choice of subjects, excellent teaching and amazing facilities!

Plus superb regional transport links and great on-site accommodation.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT JACKIE TWILLEY REGISTERED WITH LANTRA, CITY & GUILDS, UK RURAL SKILLS, and MEMBERS OF C.D.S. TRAINING

Next edition of

Student Farmer out January 2023

Please contact Scott Keyes on

07917 909 530 or email

Scott.keyes@nfu.org.uk for advertising opportunities

1546870.indd 14

Agriculture Agricultural Engineering Animal Studies Arboriculture & Tree Management Ecology & Land Management Equine Science & Management Floral Design Garden Design Horticulture Landscape Architecture Sports Coaching, Golf, Cricket, Football, Rugby, Basketball, Sports Massage, Strength and Conditioning Motorsports Sportsturf Veterinary Nursing Zoology

Myerscough College’s Degree programmes are validated by the University of Central Lancashire

OPEN MORNINGS Saturday 15th October 2022 Saturday 19th November 2022 To receive a prospectus call 0800

652 5592 or visit www.myerscough.ac.uk

Preston • Lancashire MyerscoughColl

@myerscoughcoll

13/09/2022 12:00:24

Mae campws Glynllifon ar ystâd ysblennydd Glynllifon ger Caernarfon yn arbenigo mewn cyrsiau diwydiannau’r tir, yn cynnwys:

Our Glynllifon Campus is based on the stunning Glynllifon Estate near Caernarfon and specialises in a range of land-based courses, including:

• Amaethyddiaeth • Astudiaethau Anifeiliaid • Coedwigaeth a Rheoli Cefn Gwlad • Technoleg Diwydiannau’r Tir • Nyrsio Milfeddygol

• Agriculture • Animal Studies • Forestry & Countryside Management • Land-based Technology • Veterinary Nursing

Rydym yn cynhyrchu da byw ar ein fferm fasnachol 300 erw a saif yng nghanol coetir, parcdir a chynefinoedd bywyd gwyllt, ac ymhlith y cyfleusterau a gynigiwn ar ein campws mae:

Our 300 hectares of commercial livestock farm is surrounded by woodland, park and wildlife habitats, and our campus contains a number of facilities, including:

• Y Ganolfan Astudiaethau Anifeiliaid • Y Ganolfan Beirianneg • Bloc addysgu a gostiodd £7.4M i’w godi • Efelychydd ‘Tenstar’ newydd gwerth £70,000

• Animal Studies Centre • Engineering Centre • £7.4 million teaching block • New £70,000 ‘Tenstar’ training simulator

Bob blwyddyn bydd ein myfyrwyr yn cael canlyniadau rhagorol, ac blwyddyn diwethaf y gyfradd llwyddiant ar ein cyrsiau amaethyddol oedd 100%.

Every year our students achieve excellent results, including last year a 100% pass rate in all agriculture courses.

Coleg Glynllifon: 01286 830 261 Caernarfon LL54 5DU www.gllm.ac.uk/glynllifon ymholiadau.glynllifon@gllm.ac.uk enquiries.glynllifon@gllm.ac.uk

September 2022

1546872.indd 15

15

13/09/2022 12:00:28

Work and life

Getting that balance In farming, personal and professional lives often overlap and this can be the perfect storm for our relationships and own mental health. Two of our Student & Young Farmer Ambassadors share how they’re navigating this tricky terrain and why you’re not alone, even if you are struggling

COVER STORY

The family farmer: Mary Raymond

S

ince going into farming at the age of 17, I have loved every minute of it. I finally found something that made me excited and made me want to push myself. I never tried hard in school and I didn’t do well in my exams, but this was because it was something I wasn’t passionate about. But when I discovered how much farming spoke to me, I made it my mission to know everything there was to know. My family farm is mixed, so there are many enterprises in the business, and I didn’t want to stick to one; I wanted to have my foot in every fire.

However, when I went on this mission, I discovered how hard it was for me to balance the social life of a teenager with the demands of the industry I loved. I felt like I had to choose between going out and having fun with my friends and going to my job where I was having fun and being bombarded with information.

When I had a chance to go out, I was often too tired (due to getting up at 4:30am for milking) so I wouldn’t go, and when I wasn’t tired I would have to be getting up the next morning. It got to the point where I felt like a rubbish friend, and I was excited to go to university by the end of summer so that I could, in all honestly, just have a social life.

16

1648441.indd 16

But there was a catch. Once freshers’ week was over, I quickly regretted being so excited to leave home, I found myself pining to go home, always wanting to know what was going on at the farm and feeling like I was isolated and away from everything that I loved – my dogs, my cows and, I suppose, my family.

When I went home for Christmas, I was so excited to be back to full-time farming (might regret saying that one day) and I dreaded going back to university, which I knew would be a problem, so I set myself the task of trying to enjoy the university experience as much as possible. This meant throwing myself into the deep end, trying not to contact home so much “When I had a and really getting chance to go out, I involved in life there. was often too tired At the end of (due to getting up at my first year, I 4:30am for milking) so I now cannot wait to go back for my wouldn’t go, and when second. I found the I wasn’t tired I would balance between have to be getting up having the best time the next morning” in uni and going home to my farm where I can do what I love. I have years ahead of me to be at home and only three years of university.

September 2022

13/09/2022 12:05:41

Work and life

The new entrant: Gareth Staples-Jones

S

o let’s cut to the chase; farming is hard. Farming as new entrants with no prior experience and as a young couple? Crazy hard.

Two years ago, my now ex-girlfriend, Grace, and I set up with seven lambs on one acre before taking on a short-term tenancy on 40 acres, eventually getting up to 30 breeding ewes and 50 lambs (at this point I should probably say that Grace and myself are still very good friends and I honestly couldn’t be prouder of everything we achieved together).

We created our own lamb box business and lambed by ourselves in pretty much every weather condition you could expect on top of a hill in sunny (sorry I meant wet, cold and windy) Lancashire. No dogs, no quads, just two people, sheep and grass and a lot of coffee.

McDonald’s recently released some research revealing that more than 60% of young people are not considering a career in agriculture – and there’s a whole bunch of reasons, including: • access to land • investment capital • training.

Grace and I joined the NFU simply because, as two young people from Lancashire and Manchester, we had no clue where to start, and no idea that agricultural colleges and universities existed.

We had no clue about how to create a tenancy agreement, no clue about how to find land, and absolutely no clue on how to buy sheep!

This is a problem because the government has a solution on how to help farmers get out of the industry, but it hasn’t quite figured out how to get people into farming.

In ‘normal’ times, getting younger people into farming was always an issue.

But combine that with Brexit, the highest levels of inflation since World War II and now the largest conflict in Europe since then too, as well as an ageing farming population and severe concerns about our food security… I’d say getting young people into farming should be getting bumped up a few places!

So why am I writing about any of this?

Well, as you may have gathered, myself and Grace aren’t together anymore, and we’re no longer farming, but not for a lack of trying. We were both holding down full-time jobs on top of the farming and trying to juggle our relationship and family

“We need young people, we need ambition, we need new ideas, new thinkers, new solutions to new problems. We need new farmers”

commitments – we gave it 100% and it just wasn’t enough.

On paper it would have taken us another three years to get to a size where one of us could have quit our job to have taken on running the tenancy full time. And in between all of that we would have had to have made some serious financial investments – we just didn’t have enough time and that’s something the industry is running low on.

We need young people, we need ambition, we need new ideas, new

thinkers, new solutions to new problems.

We need new farmers. Not now, not tomorrow but yesterday. And no-one, noone in government or in farming is talking about the issue enough.

I may not be actively farming at the moment, but I still feel like I’m part of the industry and I will keep pushing for government to make changes to encourage new entrants like Grace and I. And, who knows, maybe at some point I’ll get my second shot at a profitable and productive farming enterprise.

CHARITIES AND HELPLINES • • • • • • •

The Farming Community Network 0845 367 9990 Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution 0300 303 7373 Gatepost for RSABI 0300 111 4166 Mind Infoline 0300 123 3393 YANA (You Are Not Alone) 0300 323 0400 Samaritans 0845 790 9090 Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide 0300 111 5065

If you have concerns about somebody you know, you should always consider it to be a medical emergency and contact emergency services on 999.

September 2022

1648441.indd 17

17

13/09/2022 12:05:58

Next Generation

From the ground up NFU Cymru Ambassador Sian Davies reflects on establishing her own NFU next generation group at home in Wales Toby Lea

O

ne of my ambitions as a Student & Young Farmer Ambassador was to give something back to my county, Brecon and Radnorshire. After much encouragement and support from the county team, we have established a next generation group for our community.

USE YOUR CONTACTS

So, where did I start? I contacted the Radnor and Brecknockshire organisers of the Young Farmers’ Club and asked to be part of their rural affairs group.

This enabled me to network and meet members who may have an interest.

I then came up with a blueprint of what our group would look like, and individually messaged sons and daughters of farming businesses to see if they would be interested in joining.

I created a WhatsApp group and organised our first meeting in Builth Wells Rugby Club, an informal setting with guest speaker NFU Cymru Deputy President Abi Reader.

We are the first county in NFU Cymru to have a next generation group.

It will allow members from all parts of the county to interact with each other, share ideas and network across events. I feel this is something important for the farming sector to ensure young voices are heard and supporting each other.

As a group we can participate in county branch events and have input into the wider range of work NFU Cymru does for its members.

WHY CREATE THE GROUP?

Agriculture is in an uncertain time, with unknowns including future payments, tackling climate change, ensuring our land is producing food for the nation, all alongside caring for the environment. It means the need for

18

1673477.indd 18

a collaborative group of young people to Want to get in touch express their views is with Sian about starting vitally important. a group in your area?

Implementing Follow her on Instagram change within our @Sian_Eleri97 businesses comes with risk but as young farmers we must be forward-thinking and do what is best for our future.

This was reflected in our first meeting, held in May, which had more than 30 members attending to listen to what we had lined up for the group and our Q&A session with Abi.

TOUGH CONVERSATIONS

I was overwhelmed by the conversation we had regarding carbon footprinting and members wanting to participate in a carbon calculator for their farm.

Given how diverse the members’ backgrounds are (sheep, beef, poultry, holiday lets and rural professionals to name a few), it is an exciting opportunity to undertake this task.

Future study trips will include a visit to a soft fruit and arable farm, to the TB Centre of Excellence at Aberystwyth University, to an AD plant and to be part of ongoing events with NFU Cymru. We message on our WhatsApp group on a weekly basis with updates such as grant opening and closing dates, BPS/environmental schemes queries or any other issues. We also hope to support future consultations from the Welsh Government on the Sustainable Farming Incentive proposals.

Looking to the future, I always try to be positive and will support anyone who wishes to set up a group. Recently, I’ve even helped other NFU S&YF ambassadors to start theirs up and I’d be keen to hear from others interested in starting their own.

September 2022

13/09/2022 12:00:37

Inclusion

Fully accessible South West Ambassador Sophie Bould-Lynch explains how

communication can break down barriers and why inclusion matters Lawrence Looi

G

rowing up, life was incredibly tough. I was brought up with parents and immediate family being profoundly deaf or hard of hearing in some way. I have a twin sister and a younger brother, and we were all made to feel different because of the ‘world’ in which we grew up.

The amount of negativity that I used to, and still, receive is crazy and, sometimes, unthinkable. I got comments like ‘life must have been rubbish’ and ‘I can’t believe how you coped growing up’ – well for me, I haven’t known life any different. As I grow older, I realise I’ve have had so many opportunities and I’ve learned important life skills at a young age being the hearing child in a deaf family. My experiences mean I naturally include everyone as much as I can within activities or conversations.

utilise this to our advantage for equality, inclusivity, and accessibility.

Bridging the gap

Inclusion in agriculture

For me, communication is a key skill. I do what I can to try and break down the barriers between the ‘hearing world’ and the ‘deaf world’. In conversations, I will use British Sign Language (BSL) and speak at the same time so everyone can follow the conversation. And yes, I appreciate most of the population does not know how to communicate in BSL, but a simple smile and wave can change the whole perception of a conversation and make the difference to someone’s day.

I know reading this you might think ‘that’s easier said than done’, and it can be. However, my advice would be to take every opportunity and most importantly, help others to do the same. Why can’t we include everyone? Why can’t we learn to adapt? Technology has advanced and we need to

Going forward, my aim is to include as many people from different backgrounds as possible in agriculture. I am currently in the process of creating short videos to educate people in agriculture; these range from the basics of where food comes from to putting together cookery videos to countryside awareness.

By speaking and signing the videos with captions, I can ensure that the 11 million people who are hard of hearing, and the 151,000 who use BSL, are included. I have also chosen to use dark-coloured texts on light (non-white) backgrounds, and to avoid green, red, and pink as these are colours that people with dyslexia and colour-blindness struggle with. It’s about educating ourselves, and simple changes like this means people feel included and a wider audience is reached.

SOPHIE’S TOP FIVE TIPS ON INCLUSIVITY:

1

Put yourself in someone else’s shoes, take a pause and think how they would feel. Sometimes that’s all you need to do.

2

No matter how rubbish a situation is, try and find the positive.

3

Take life as it comes, day by day.

4

Try not to stress, and find ways to look after your mental health if you do.

5

If you don’t understand something, do some research.

September 2022

1673477.indd 19

19

13/09/2022 12:00:44

STUDY AT REASEHEATH OPEN DAYS 22/23 Saturday 8 October Saturday 5 November Saturday 3 December Saturday 14 January Saturday 11 February Saturday 25 March

AGRICULTURE COURSES • Foundation Level 1 Land-Based Diploma • Level 2 Advanced Technical Certificate in Agriculture • Level 2 Diploma in Land and Environment • Level 3 Diplomas in Agriculture • Level 3 Diploma in Agri-Food Enterprise • Technical Baccalaureate in Agriculture • Apprenticeships in Agriculture

Saturday 22 April Saturday 10 June www.reaseheath.ac.uk/ course-open-days

20

COMING SOON T Level in Agriculture, Land Management and Production (with Livestock Production or Crop Production pathways)

September 2022

www.reaseheath.ac.uk/agriculture 1546882.indd 20

13/09/2022 14:42:04

UCR

Study at UCR Agriculture Degrees • Foundation Degree in Sustainable Agriculture with Dairy Herd Management • Foundation Degree in Sustainable Agriculture with Livestock Management • Foundation Degree in Sustainable Agriculture with Crop Management • BSc (Hons) Sustainable Agriculture Top-up 21

Open Days 22/23 Saturday 15 October Saturday 12 November Saturday 11 February Saturday 10 June www.ucreaseheath.ac.uk/open-days

September 2022

www.ucreaseheath.ac.uk/agriculture 1546882.indd 21

13/09/2022 14:42:10

Soil

Investigating soil potential As input costs rise and net zero goals approach, the time to build a profitable and sustainable dairy business model is now.

And utilising our soils’ full capabilities could be a big part of that, as West Midlands Ambassador Edward Lord discusses...

T

he current market uncertainty, and fertiliser prices tripling, inspired me to rethink our on-farm nitrogen policies.

I investigated the potential in our soils and how improving it can benefit crop quality, yield and cow health.

I believe soil is the greatest asset we have on farm. It contains a wealth of microbiology, organic matter and nutrients which provide the basis for crop growth, with balanced soils also having the potential to produce healthy, high integrity crops and to lock up carbon. I believe we must move away from conventional techniques and look towards a biological approach, such as: • making sure ideal soil pHs are reached through good liming policies; • optimal P and K indices by utilising the carbon cycle and composting farmyard manure; • ensuring our soils contain a calcium to magnesium ratio of 68% to 12%. This can be altered by gypsum; • creating aerated, microorganism-rich soil through feeding soil microbes with molasses and foliar feeds; • encouraging no till techniques, where applicable, to build organic matter and lock up carbon; • making sure the carbon to nitrogen levels of our soils are at a ratio of five to one to encourage microorganism biodiversity.

This thinking inspired me to complete a work placement on an organic dairy farm in Leicestershire that has focused on building soil health for 20 years. The farm's impressive grass growth and mixed wholecrop yields (which in many circumstances mirrored our own), with no artificial inputs, was an eye-opener. It showcases the real possibilities that can be achieved through correcting calcium to magnesium ratios, building biodiversity in the soils through foliar feeds and

22

1683066.indd 22

using legumes extensively to fix nitrogen and increase sward quality.

Therefore, our challenge and current aim on farm is to encompass a biological approach to managing our soils to reduce nitrogen input further, while sustaining forage quality and yield. Since identifying this, we have delved into composting farmyard manure using bokashi to boost organic matter and are applying slurry with a carbon source (molasses). We’re also currently growing a mixed wholecrop including spring barley, peas, red clover and vetch in the hope of providing an 18% protein winter feed. This should boost milk production and fertility and reduce concentrate input. Attaching the fertiliser spreader used to bring us excitement, yet, in this new era, each time I now question what mistake we may have made and how I can learn from it.

I may not be anywhere close to being a soil whiz and there are many new avenues to explore as our journey continues. However, I believe encouraging the limited understanding of soil science beyond soil pH and nutrient indices within our industry is essential as we look forward to creating climate friendly, biological dairy systems which can efficiently produce milk through fewer ecologically-damaging inputs.

September 2022

13/09/2022 12:42:09

Soil

Take five with Erin NFU Cymru Ambassador Erin McNaught wants to inspire farmers to take a break and have a read about farming practices from further afield I love reading books. For me, there is no better way of relaxing after a day on the farm than sitting in the garden, reading, with a cold drink and my dog Moxy by my side.

Dirt to Soil by Gabe Brown

With working on a regenerative dairy farm and beginning my own journey of taking over my family beef and sheep farm, I’ve been thirsty for any knowledge on different methods of farming. Reading allows me to find out what other people are doing.

What is regenerative farming?

Regenerative farming involves principles and practices that aspire to rehabilitate and enhance the entire ecosystem while producing quality, more nutritious produce. It's Visit NFUonline.com to something I'm keen to see what the NFU is doing learn about as much as to help farmers on their possible, and so I was path to acheiving Net recommended this book Zero by 2040 by my boss. Ever since the first chapter I’ve been captured, but I know some of you may be sceptical. However, I would suggest you be open-minded and don’t shy away, as this book should be a must-read on any farmer’s book list.

NET ZERO

I know some of you may be sceptical about regenerative farming. However, I would suggest you be open-minded and don’t shy away, as this book should be a must-read on any farmer’s book list

A little bit about the book

Dirt to Soil is written around farmer Gabe Brown’s unique story of making bold choices. I'm inspired by the story of a city-boy-turned-farmer and have learned how his open thinking made him into a renowned farmer. I found it really interesting to read about farming further afield, as he is based in North Dakota. We learn about the market they sell to, their struggle with the weather, and the most worrying issue of our time – soil degradation.

Firstly, we hear about his realisation that the ranch (that he bought from his in-laws) was degraded. His crops failed and he blamed this on the different characteristics of his farm, like the soil structure that could not stand the brutal weather they received year on year.

This led him into a desperate financial

To win a copy of Dirt to Soil by Gabe Brown, send your name, address and membership number to competitions@ nfu.org.uk by 31 October 2022.

situation. Gabe knew he had to do something different.

You will be fascinated by Gabe’s incredible journey of turning a conventional farm into a self-renewing, regenerative farm. Split into two parts, the book shares his grazing methods and how he re-thought how he manages the livestock aspect (if you're a livestock farmer like me, you are guaranteed to pick up a few tips in this part!). The second half is all about the bigger picture; going beyond his own farmstead, he discusses how his farming methods could work on your farm.

This book will revolutionise your mindset and farming ways. A mustread for any 21st century farmer, and as Gabe says: “A person is only limited by his or her imagination”.

September 2022

1683066.indd 23

23

13/09/2022 12:42:16

Net zero

Measure

Use the many and various (and very often, clever) metering systems to work out where and how your energy is being used.

Understand

Take some time to work out where and why your biggest energy consumptions happen.

Audit and re-appraise

The energy market is moving very quickly at the moment, and what’s true today might well be wrong tomorrow, so keep your ear to the ground and keep comparing what's on offer.

Stay friends

Your neighbours and local community will have a say in any large-scale project you do, so keep them onside and involve them wherever possible.

24

1672119.indd 24

Speak to as many experts as you can about the possibilities for reducing energy consumption in your systems.

Create a plan

Invest in renewable energy

Support your own consumption before considering large-scale, third-party systems.

Do your research

TO BE GREEN ON YOUR FARM Claire Hartry from NFU Energy gives her top tips for being energy-efficient where you can

Keep control

Look after your own grid connection and work out what’s possible before looking for a large-scale renewable energy partner.

Start with the simple low cost/ low impact items to gain confidence in your solutions, work up to the bigger more impactful interventions.

Don’t just follow the crowd

Your energy solutions will be different to others. There is rarely a one-size-fits-all solution, so make sure yours fits your business.

Call NFU Energy

The team at NFU Energy is here to help and can provide the insight, help and advice you are going to need.

Call 024 7669 6512 or visit www.nfuenergy.co.uk for more information.

September 2022

13/09/2022 12:01:05

Net zero

A top priority South West Ambassador Mike Wilkins talks about what he’s doing on farm to help tackle the climate crisis Adam Fradgley

M

ost industries are waking up to the dire need for them to reverse their negative impact on our natural environment. While many are looking to ‘offset’ their way out of a climate catastrophe, agriculture has a rather unique opportunity to mitigate our climate impact internally, otherwise known as ‘insetting’.

As manager of a 1,400 hectare farming business, our environmental impact and contribution towards the NFU’s target of a net zero agricultural industry by 2040 is a top priority. I fear that if we farmers trade too much of our carbon and environmental capital out of our farming businesses (to oil companies, airlines, or other offset-hungry industries) we will undermine our own inherent ability to first achieve carbon neutrality ourselves.

The manufacture and application of inorganic fertilisers, such as nitrogen, make up around two thirds of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions on predominantly arable farms like ours. Nitrogen fertilisers release nitrous oxide, which has around 300 times the global warming potential (GWP) of carbon dioxide. So, surely the answer is to stop using inorganic fertilisers? Not quite…

Feeding a growing population

According to expert Hannah Ritchie from Global Change Data Lab, it’s estimated that nitrogen fertiliser now supports approximately half of the global population. And many human foods produced on farms, such as milling wheat and malting barley, have highly specific nitrogen requirements to achieve the quality essential for their end use.

On our farm, we’re aiming to reduce our total nitrogen usage while maintaining the high levels required on our human-consumption crops. We believe that this requires a holistic approach to managing and mitigating our climate impact.

One way we are working to achieve this is within our crop rotations. On a 330 hectare farm, we have split the cropping into six 55 hectare blocks. One of these blocks, roughly 16% of the cropped area, is planted with a four-year herbal ley under the Countryside Stewardship option GS4. This requires zero inputs.

Reducing nitrogen by 16%

Averaged across the lifetime of the ley, in place of the alternative arable crops that would have been

Farm manager Mike Wilkins is keen to look at the global picture when considering his own farming practices

grown, we will have reduced our total nitrogen usage by around 16% annually. Paired with a wider rotation of nitrogen-hungry milling wheats and lower input crops, such as canary seed and beans, we can have a significantly lower total nitrogen requirement, and higher environmental benefit, than a simplistic wheat/ oilseed rape rotation.

To further quantify the environmental benefits of our herbal leys, we are beginning a regime of soil and organic matter testing to better understand their impact on increasing carbon sequestration and improving soil health.

The bigger picture

Leys also have other benefits, including nitrogen fixation, supplying nectar and pollen, and providing natural wormers to livestock. This last point is particularly advantageous to the way we What are you manage our leys, which is by grazing with doing on your farm our fully outdoor Exlana sheep. Using to reach net zero by insetting, coupled with the extensive low 2040? Tweet input management of the flock, we aspire @StudentFarmer to produce lamb that is net zero. and let us know Ultimately, stacking these practices with other tools such as agroforestry and renewables, I want UK agriculture to go beyond carbon neutrality into carbon negativity. That gives us a monumental and enviable opportunity to assist other industries, ones that don’t have our insetting abilities, to achieve net zero through offsetting. This will be key in enabling the UK to achieve its target of nationwide net zero by 2050.

September 2022

1688231.indd 25

25

13/09/2022 12:01:10

From tray to tummy

South East Ambassador and soft fruit farm

manager Dan Hawes gives us the lowdown on how strawberries make it to the supermarket shelves John Cottle

26

1688255.indd 26

September 2022

13/09/2022 12:01:33

Supply chain Move over Greg Wallace! Welcome to NFU Student & Young Farmer Ambassador Inside the Factory (on a scaled down size, but with just as much enthusiasm). There has been a lot of love and hard work put into producing the perfect strawberry – so how does it go from a growing plant to a punnet in a shop? Here’s how:

05.30

Picking begins. Your fruits are picked directly into the punnet you buy them in – it’s all about quality and efficiency.

Strawberries ripen at different stages, so the field will be picked every three days while it’s in production, only taking the ripe berries as workers pass.

06.00

The punnets are prepared in ‘field trays’, which contain 10 of the 400g punnets. Once the picker’s trolley is full, these are taken to a collection area on the edge of the field, and when a pallet is full (that’s around 750 punnets’ worth!) it’s taken away to cold storage.

06.10

The fruits reach the fridge – dropping the fruit temperature is key to maintaining the best quality and shelf life so the consumer can enjoy for longer – aiming for under 40C. They will remain close to this temperature for the rest of their journey (but remember, when you get them home, take them out of the fridge and let them get to room temperature as this provides maximum flavour).

10.00

Fraise facts:

1 2 3 4

Strawberries contain more vitamin C than oranges Strawberries are good for your brain, muscles and heart – the ideal study food!

Commonly strawberries are red, but they can also be yellow, blue and white

Apparently if you sprinkle pepper over sliced strawberries and eat them, it keeps your teeth white (can't say I've tried it myself!)

5

Evidence suggests we've been eating strawberries since the Stone Age (imagine Fred Flintstone enjoying a punnet!)

First pick up. The fruits are picked up and taken to the packhouse (also chilled). This is where the quality and weights are checked to make sure you get what you pay for.

Once this process is complete and everything is as it should be, the lid is heat-sealed on. This method is great as the seals use significantly less plastic than removable lids, and they’re tamper-proof! Food safety and traceability is key here.

From there, they are packed into customer (usually the supermarkets) trays, labelled, and placed in the next fridge ready for dispatch.

16.00

Off to the shops! The refrigerated articulated lorries turn up and take up to 26 pallets of fruit at a time. These will usually head onto the supermarket's distribution centre before heading to your local store.

07.00

Your strawberries have arrived in store, and are on the shelves ready for you to enjoy.

Of course, it can’t always be within 24 hours. Fruit picked later in the day can’t always be processed same day, or delivered straight away, but that’s the beauty of keeping it in the fridge.

So next time you’re out in the shops (or farm shops and garden centres), keep an eye out for British strawberries with the Union Flag.

And if you’ve never thought about a career in fruit and fresh produce, take it from me, there’s plenty of opportunity out there!

September 2022

1688255.indd 27

27

13/09/2022 12:01:54

Social media

North East Ambassador Rebecca Wilson discusses how to use social media in agriculture as a force for good and a way to promote our industry

I

’m often asked whether I always wanted to be a farmer. The answer is yes. Alongside my twin sister, we are now the fifth generation on our family farm in North Yorkshire.

After going away to study and a stint in other sectors (but still within agriculture), I ventured back to the farm just over a year ago.

I can safely say that being a farmer is all I hoped it would be in terms of the opportunities to make a difference.

Anyone who knows me knows that not even a year ago, I had only posted about three pictures on Instagram, and I didn’t even know TikTok existed, let alone how to put a video together. When I became an NFU Student & Young Farmer Ambassador, I really wanted to utilise the opportunity I had to spread positive messages about British agriculture. Cue my first ‘proper’ post! I spent ages trying to get the tone right, and had to pluck up the courage to click share as I didn’t have many followers, let alone anyone who knew what the NFU stood for. From there, I found I had lots of opportunities to take photos on the farm and beyond. What seemed to me to be a day-to-day job, such as foot bathing sheep, proved to be an eye-opener for lots of my followers who could learn about the time and attention which farmers give to their flock and to animal welfare. Now, I still take time when writing my posts to ensure that I’m relaying the right message.

Across the industry, every day I see inspiring farmers who are using their social media platforms to reach their sometimes tens of thousands of followers to talk about their sector and the challenges which they are facing on farm but also as a way to showcase their diversifications such as campsites, farm shops or direct meat sales. With a can-do attitude, a willingness to be as open as possible and a mobile phone, more and more people are able to promote their businesses and encourage people to support British agriculture through a photo or video and a quick click of the share button.

28

1673506.indd 28

REBECCA’S TOP 5 SOCIAL MEDIA TIPS

1 2

BE HONEST Showing the highs and the lows is not only authentic, it also resonates more with followers.

STOCK UP I’ve found it really helpful to have a bank of photos of farm life for those times when I can’t seem to get a good photo!

3

INTERACT Speak to your Follow Rebecca followers. I’ve on Instagram found using the @rebeccawilson722 question and poll boxes on Instagram stories a great way to find out who your followers are and what they want to learn about.

4

PICK YOUR BATTLES Some people can’t be reasoned with, accept this and move on. I have blocked people and deleted comments if I think they are damaging to my message and not based on evidence.

5

ENJOY IT! It’s easy to get bogged down with the constant nature of social media, but as soon as you stop enjoying it, you may lose your key messages.

September 2022

13/09/2022 12:02:15

How to get into agriculture

How to get into

agriculture East Anglia Ambassador Thomas Saunders looks at different routes into the agriculture industry While someone’s end goal might be to work in agriculture, there is not a ‘best route’ into the industry, or only one career. I have grown up on a mixed family farm in Bedfordshire. Initially, I wanted to be a land agent and I undertook two years of a degree apprenticeship with Harper Adams University. However, I have decided that my passion lies in education and inspiring the next generation about the importance of farming and the opportunities available within it. Therefore, I have continued my degree at Harper Adams as a full-time student with one year left to go!

There is no one defined route into the agricultural industry and we need people from all types of background to get involved. Whichever route you may take, remember that you are the future of British agriculture!

Employment Agriculture does not just mean farming, there are so many other employment opportunities within the industry. If you have a keen interest in biology, have you considered plant breeding as a career? If you are interested in computer science, have you considered precision agriculture? How about farm animal nutrition or genetics?

Education Agricultural colleges allow you to build the foundations of the subject you wish to learn about, whether that be agriculture, animal care or countryside management.

Colleges allow for more of a focus to be placed on a single subject in comparison to A-Levels.

University and apprenticeships allow you to build on these foundations. They provide a deeper understanding of matters and issues within agriculture (if you are studying agriculture). This route allows you to gain lots of knowledge, so when you are looking for jobs, you are able to display a large amount of technical insight.

If you are currently working on a farm, have you considered upskilling? It is very useful to have other qualifications which can increase employability. Have you considered undertaking your PA1 and PA2? Would a telehandler certificate benefit you? What about completing a chainsaw course? How about a hedge-laying course?

While doing A-Levels, college or university, many students will use the holidays to gain some experience on farms. This can be very useful for the future, as it demonstrates to future employers that you have a range of experience. If you are interested in agriculture, then I would encourage you to get some experience to see if the job is for you!

WHAT OTHER OPPORTUNITIES ARE THERE? There are so many opportunities to work within the industry, some of which are outlined below: Full-time on farm Farming includes many different roles, such as farm workers and farm managers.

Harry Moffat, an Assistant Farm Manager told me why he loves what he does: “I am really enjoying applying what I have learned, with the ability to make my own decisions.”

Rural surveying

Rural surveying is varied, including tasks such as preparing farm budgets, negotiating a compensation claim or looking at a planning application for a barn conversion.

Chartered Surveyor Lucy Bates explains: “Being a chartered surveyor is brilliant. I enjoy the variety of the work, having the opportunity to build relationships and a good rapport with clients.”

Agronomy An agronomist assists farmers in making decisions in regard to inputs or practices for their soil management and crops.

Agronomist Ed Schofield says: “I enjoy my job because no two days are the same.

Every day I work with different people on different systems and farms, solving problems, guiding and advising in all aspects of the farm business. The whole job is very rewarding.”

September 2022

1673506.indd 29

29

13/09/2022 12:02:28

Don't get scurvy

Easy peasy lamb chop squeezy West Midlands Ambassador Bizza Walters talks about why eating seasonal produce is important for our farming community and the environment

I

s there anything better than eating a meal when the produce has been either grown by yourself or purchased from local farm shops and producers?

Not only does it taste better, it also feels so good knowing that the food you are consuming hasn’t flown thousands of miles to get on your plate, and you are supporting our British farmers!

We are really lucky at home that we can grow our own veggies, and we have an abundance of fruit on the farm, from blackberries to apples to damsons. We are sheep farmers, so lamb is regularly on the menu at dinner time, especially during the spring and summer!

I recently had a friend come to visit, and we agreed for lunch we would cook a completely home grown and produced meal – lamb chops, potatoes, asparagus and herbs from the garden and WOW was it good. I am not a cook, but luckily, she is a TikTok foodie (Follow her @haribeavis) so she walked me through her recipe, and it was so simple that even I can make it on my own now (a big achievement for me)!

After-dinner reading

I really can’t stress enough how important it is to be buying locally and seasonally and supporting our British farmers, because without them, we would be in serious trouble. Agriculture across the world is going through a turbulent time, and the UK is currently only around 60% self-sufficient; we have the ability to increase this to at least 80%, so let’s all do our bit to get there! By eating local and seasonal food, you are reducing your food miles, eating nutritious food with meat produced to the highest welfare standards, and putting money back into your local

30

1681494.indd 30

September 2022

13/09/2022 12:02:34

ARE YOU THE NEW FACE OF FARMING? economy. I was in a farm shop recently and overheard a couple in their late twenties asking if they could sign up for a weekly meat and veg box, and it made me so happy to hear.

Challenge yourself

A little challenge to finish off with – during the next four weeks, see if you can source the majority of your food within a 30-mile radius of where you live. You should Here is the step-by-step guide and ingredients list to make the most delicious and easy lamb chop meal for two: 1. Gather all your ingredients. We got ours from the garden (and chops from the freezer).

2. You can get all the veggies from your garden if you grow them, or your local farm shop/greengrocer. Your meat can easily be sourced from your local butcher or farm shop too, maybe your local farmer does meat boxes (just ask them!!).

3. Put some water on to boil for the potatoes and sprinkle in a pinch of salt.

4. Pre-heat a pan on the hob or range with lots of butter, and add in the garlic and rosemary.

5. Once the potato water is boiling, pop the potatoes in along with the sprigs of mint.

6. Prep the chops by smearing them in olive oil and salt and pepper.

7. Add the chops to the pan and let them cook in all the delicious, garlicy, butter for 3-4 minutes on each side.

8. Drain the potatoes once they are boiled, put them in a dish and add in a knob of butter.

9. Take the lamb chops off the heat

be able to do this with your meat, fruit, and veggies. There is so much in season at the moment – potatoes, tomatoes, strawberries, raspberries, rhubarb to name just a few! Give it a go, and I would love to hear how you get on. Big thanks to Hari Beavis for the pictures and recipe, and teaching me the basics of cooking!

Follow Bizza on Instagram @adventuresofashepherdess

You will need...

• • • • • • • • •

Lamb chops x 2 Some new potatoes A couple of sprigs of mint and rosemary A handful of asparagus Garlic cloves x 3 (or more if you’re a garlic fiend!)

Butter Olive oil Salt and pepper Mint sauce

and leave to rest on the side (this is really important).

10. Pop the asparagus in the pan to cook in the juices from the lamb chops (trust me, it’s a game changer).

Don’t leave it too long though – I few minutes will be enough so your asparagus still has that perfect bite!

11. Plate everything up with some mint sauce, drizzle any remaining juices from the pan over the chops/ potatoes and VOILÀ – you have an easy, delicious, and locally sourced and produced meal!

12. We finished off by going out into the garden and picking some strawberries to have with some locally made ice-cream.

The Black Farmer and Writtle University College (WUC) are on a crusade to stop the drought in diversity within the food, farming and agricultural industries. The search is going to take place outside of traditional farming circles to encourage young people from diverse backgrounds to consider farming as a career.

The all-expenses paid residential weekend will be held at the University College's countryside campus on 31 March to 2 April and will offer teenagers aged 16-18 a taste of farm life.

Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones, aka The Black Farmer, explains: "As a young boy living in inner city Birmingham and with an interest in farming, it was impossible to find the opportunity to develop this interest. Fifty years on nothing has changed. Many young people interested in food, farming and agriculture do not know where to go to explore and develop their interest.

This scheme is the first step in bringing about much-needed change."

Wilfred, who was awarded an MBE for services to farming in 2020, adds: "It is my mission to encourage more youth and diversity into farming and agriculture, so to be able to work with Writtle University College on these initiatives is tremendously exciting."

At the age of 40, Wilfred fulfilled a life-long dream when he purchased a small farm on the Devon/ Cornwall border, the inspiration for his The Black Farmer brand. His brand tagline "without frontiers" encapsulates his drive to ensure more people have the chance to live and work in rural areas.

To find out more and to apply, visit writtle.ac.uk/new-faces-for-farming September 2022

1681494.indd 31

31

13/09/2022 12:02:39

Diversification

COVER STORY

D E S T I N AT I O N

D I V E R S I F I C AT I O N Whether you are a farmer or not, imagination and determination are key to building your diversification business, according to East Anglia Ambassadors Hannah Buisman and Emily Brown

32

1674297.indd 32

September 2022

13/09/2022 13:01:09

Diversification Diversification has become a vital income stream for many rural businesses, and so we are taking a trip to Destination: Diversification to explore our businesses and what the future holds for your next venture.

Hannah: Super excited to chat today with you Emily about our diversifications and future plans. To start with, what is your background, and why did you decide to diversify?

Emily: I come from a mixed family farm in Bedfordshire, which we have farmed since 1947. We farm 500 hectares (mainly combinables with some grass) as well as turkeys, pigs and cattle, most of which go through our farm shop. My family diversified to add another income stream to the farm; it fitted well with a desire to have more livestock on the farm and it also kept my mum happy who prefers livestock to arable. How about you?

Hannah: I was brought up on an arable family farm in Hertfordshire in a bilingual household and studied languages at Durham University. Having returned home with a fresh, global perspective, I started managing our new vineyard enterprise while assisting with the arable farm and office. The farm has a great diversification portfolio thanks to my parents. They built this up as a means of supporting the arable business which is prone to peaks and troughs, while adding variety to our roles, which keeps things interesting! What is your role in the business?

Emily: Having been at University at Harper Adams over the past five

years, where I studied Agriculture with Farm Business Management, I help out whenever I can in my spare time (especially during busy periods such as harvest and Christmas time with the turkeys and the farm shop). I am fortunate that my dad is pretty forward-thinking and we have great discussions on any ideas I might have for the business going forward.

Hannah: I am guessing you have learned a lot as a result?

Emily: Without a doubt, it has shown me that at times you just have to put your head down and keep going until the job is done properly. I have also learned that it can be challenging working with family because there is little escapism at the end of the day; work doesn’t stop when you go home. They say farming is a way of life, not just a job, however it is really important to have time away from the farm.

Hannah: I completely agree, the biggest challenge I have faced is work-life balance.

As a business manager, it can be really difficult to step away from your work, especially when working with family. It is easy to feel like you are letting the side down if you are not working all the time.

Balancing my jobs can be a real challenge and it has been a steep learning curve realising I need to take breaks and leave business at the door.

Emily: I would add that it is important not to be afraid of trying something new.

Even if you think an idea is really bonkers, you don’t know unless you’ve tried it. If it doesn’t work, learn from it and move on, we can’t always get things right 100% of

Emily Brown on her family farm in Bedfordshire

September 2022

1674297.indd 33

33

13/09/2022 13:01:19

Diversification

TOP TIPS • • • • • •

•

Research is key.

Try filling in a ‘lean canvas’ start-up business planner map.

Look for a business mentor at university, the Prince’s Trust, The Henry Plumb Foundation etc.

Network: Connect and learn from others in your sector, they will fasttrack your business.

Don’t be afraid of trying something new. If it fails, learn from it and move on.

Not all types of diversification will suit your location.

Look into target markets and investigate any gaps in the market.

Reach out and visit other farms/businesses across the UK and other countries - broaden your horizons.

the time. What made you take the plunge with the vineyard?

Hannah: My parents have been considering a vineyard for more than 20 years. The soil and aspect are ideal, and finally the industry and climate have caught up too. English wine is now a thriving sector, with the infrastructure and expertise to match. We still wanted to be a grower, but rather than be a price taker, we will be a price maker, giving us greater control and stability over our income. I have previous experience in the sector and offer stability for the future, so my return was the green light. We also love wine!

Emily: That’s great! How did you go about learning how to start your venture?

Hannah: With any new venture, research is key. I had never started my own business before, let alone one with such responsibilities. I called on experts in the field to help establish the viability of the business, while visiting other vineyards and networking. You mentioned you are exploring new ideas, what are you planning?

Emily: For my university dissertation, I researched the feasibility of diversifying into a farm gym. I love sports as well as farming so it is a great way to combine two of my passions.

Hannah: Amazing! How did you set about exploring this possibility?

Emily: Social media and the internet were the starting points to search for other farm gyms. I also researched various themes such as the benefits of exercising indoors vs. outdoors, using academic journals and reports. For more detailed research, Google Scholar can be a great place to start. If you were to start again, is there anything you would you do differently?

34

1674297.indd 34

DESTINATION

CONTACT DETAILS

ABOUT

LOKKELEBERY VINEYARD

Website: lokkelebery.co.uk

Set to produce high quality still Rosé as well as sparkling wines from 2025

Instagram: @lokkelebery_vineyard

BROWNS OF STAGSDEN FARM

Website: brownsofstagsden.co.uk

Family-run farm shop, set on a working family farm

Instagram: @browns_of_stagsden

FARM FITNESS

Website: farmfitness.co.uk Instagram: @farm_fitness

Hannah: In business, there are plenty of ‘what ifs’ and it is easy to get hung up on these. However, if anything, I would say to myself: talk to others, use their expertise and don’t worry so much, as it usually works itself out in the end. Do you have any tips on how to overcome any feelings of doubt?

Emily: Show the evidence and research to back up your plan, that will help to support what you are trying to do. Also, identify your unique selling point (USP) to set you apart. Lastly, if you believe in something then go for it; passion, determination and

Located in the glorious countryside, break into a unique style of functional training which is accessible to all fitness levels

hard work will always go a long way.

Hannah: Very true! What is the bestselling product in your farm shop?

Emily: Our Old English sausages, made using our home-reared Oxford Sandy and Black Pigs! Finally for some quiz knowledge, how many grapes does it take to produce a bottle of wine?

Hannah: Roughly speaking 1 vine = 1 bottle, so I would say around 700 grapes.

We have planted roughly 25,000 vines, so quite a few bottles!

September 2022

13/09/2022 13:01:29

Participation

Getting involved East Midlands Ambassador Jess Langton on why putting your hat in the ring will give you opportunities you may never have thought possible John Cottle

I

’m a dairy farmer from Derbyshire, milking a pedigree herd of Locklan Holsteins and Friesians. Following part-time work for Genus ABS as a reproductive management specialist, I joined its graduate scheme in September. I’ve always found agriculture to be a diverse industry with a vast range of opportunities and I’d like to explain how I went about making the most of them.

Growing up, I was never too sure what I wanted to do. However, I adored helping my Grandad on our family farm which formed the roots of my passion for the dairy industry. Science was my favourite subject at school, so I paired this with my love of cows to study Animal Science at the University of Nottingham. There, I found myself looking for opportunities and challenges to stretch me and to broaden my knowledge of the industry.

Thriving under pressure and relishing challenges

as a reproductive management specialist, which involves visiting herds and artificially inseminating cows. With the pandemic striking during my first few years at uni, I was able to work while studying remotely, which benefited my mental health and wellbeing immensely.

Pushing myself out of my comfort zone led to me taking part in the Farmers Weekly ‘Farmers Apprentice’ in 2020. This was an incredible experience that gave me an insight into many different aspects of the industry and had me working with nine other farmers to overcome challenges. I soon realised how inter-linked our industry is and that I needed to broaden my knowledge, which led to me getting involved with the NFU.

Apply, apply, apply!

I became more active at a county level and saw the position for dairy board appointee advertised in British Farmer & Grower magazine. Reading through the criteria, I knew I checked all of the necessary boxes, but I was

still having doubts that my age would ruin my chances of a position on the board. After a small motivational talk with myself, I sent my application. I couldn’t believe it when I was asked for an interview and selected to be on the board. Being passionate about dairy and overcoming my self-doubt now means I can contribute to the future of the dairy industry!

Seeing the extent of the NFU and the work it does, I’m now also an appointee to its Next Generation Forum and a Student & Young Farmer Ambassador to try and increase my impact and involvement with the industry further.

I’ve found the National Federation of Young Farmers and other farming organisations, such as Holstein Young Breeders, to be fantastic doorways into the industry and I’d strongly recommend getting involved with those too.

If I had one piece of advice to leave you with, it would be push yourself out of your comfort zone and take every opportunity given to you, as you never know where it will lead you!

I joined the Genus Insights programme

Follow Jess on Instagram @Jess.Langton

September 2022

1674297.indd 35

35

13/09/2022 13:01:48

Dissertation

Consumer perceptions Maisie Bruce, a final year student at the University of Reading, was the recipient of NFU sponsorship for her final year dissertation. Here, she discusses her findings

T

he aim of my study was to understand consumer perceptions of the environmental impacts of chicken poultry production, from where and how their opinions are formed and how aligned they are to the true picture.

Why this subject?

Worldwide, the poultry industry is one of the leading, largest and fastest growing agricultural sectors and I was interested in why consumers might have different perceptions of chicken poultry production.

Chicken products are deemed nutritional, tasty, versatile, healthy and affordable.

However, some media channels have identified a picture of poor practices when it comes to food safety, product quality and bird welfare. This has, to some extent, influenced the public, created doubt, and formed negative perceptions of the industry.

From an environmental point of view, poultry’s footprint is relatively

36

1673507.indd 36

low in comparison with other livestock production. However, recent media interest in the environment has put poultry production in the spotlight. This exposure, the public’s growing concern for the environment, the size of the poultry sector and the previously presented image of the industry, make it likely that environmental concerns linked to poultry production will increasingly feature on the public’s radar.

Research beginnings

The first task was to establish what the main environmental concerns associated with chicken production are. Following an in-depth, scientific, literature review, the NFU helped me contact farmers across the UK from all sectors of the poultry industry (i.e. broilers, layers and hatcheries).

Environmental themes that emerged included global warming, pollution (air, groundwater and soil), resource use (energy, land, water) and the actual poultry production processes. Once

identified, these themes were then worked up into an online consumer questionnaire; 510 consumers participated in the survey across different age groups.

What was discovered?

The study found that consumer perception of the associated environmental impacts of poultry production were mixed and originated from a range of sources, which varied by age group. Some understandings were aligned with the expert analysis and others were not. Also, that the interrelationships between different impacts were not necessarily reflected in a consumer's rating of individual environmental issues.

It was found that consumers lack accurate information. Looking at media reports, it can be assumed that most consumers are generally aware of global warming, acidification and eutrophication potential that can have an impact on the environment. Poultry production is not seen to be the leading issue in environmental

September 2022

13/09/2022 12:03:05

Dissertation reports; however, this could easily change.

The research showed that consumers absorbed their information from across the media spectrum and that their source channels changed with their age group. The industry needs to deliver balanced, timely information to consumers in packages via channels they can understand and relate to. This needs to happen before other influencers seize the opportunity to communicate and create misleading or inaccurate perceptions of the industry.

The farmer interviews showed that they are aware of the potential environmental impacts of production, and in general, they make choices and decisions to mitigate impacts.

Farmers see the issues not only as environmental, but as critical for bird welfare and the economic sustainability of their businesses.

Consumers perceive fossil fuel and chemical use to be major environmental issues related to poultry production. This is not surprising; from the media, the public may be aware of the damaging environmental impacts of fossil fuel use, emissions and chemicals (for example, pesticides and fertilisers) across human activity, including agriculture. What the data did not indicate was any consumer awareness that levels of fossil fuel and greenhouse gas emissions are relatively low on poultry farms, or that farmers are working to restrict chemical use and are increasingly reducing the issue.

When asked about the disposal of poultry manure, responses seem to indicate that consumers are not aware of the large quantities of manure produced, and storage and disposal issues. But they are aware of potential issues around agricultural by-product run-off and leaching into soil and groundwater.

Another example is that, contrary to farmer input, consumer perception is that on-farm land use would also be environmentally damaging. This response could also be expected as consumers might be aware of marketing images of chickens roaming on open grassland, and media reports of the development of new American-style, large scale housing units.

When considering resource use for growing feed concentrate for on-farm use both poultry farmers and consumers reported this is a potential environmental

“Chicken products are deemed nutritional, tasty, versatile, healthy and affordable.

However, some media channels have identified a picture of poor practices when it comes to food safety, product quality and bird welfare.” issue. Farmers believe that the combined environmental impacts of growing feed will be a significant future issue.

Consumers’ responses, again, are probably to be expected, as the media report regularly on worldwide deforestation and land-use change of natural vegetation land converted to agricultural use. Media coverage does not currently significantly link poultry feed concentrate to soya grown on deforestation land, so it could be that the consumer responses are linked to their perception of agriculture overall.

Organic production is another environmental issue that could have been media influenced. If media reports included, for example, the inefficiencies of poultry feed conversion ratios, or the effects of slower production cycles, the consumer responses may have been less positive towards organic production of chicken.

What now?

Research recommendations are that the industry should improve communication with consumers and groups (such as the media) who might influence them.

The objective would be to bridge gaps in consumers’ perceptions and proactively tackle incorrect and misinformed media damaging to the industry.

At COP26, the NFU acknowledged that better communication with consumers and influencers is needed to demonstrate the progress already made towards the NFU’s Net Zero by 2040 goal.

Environmental challenges will be an increasingly important issue for the poultry sector, as they will be for all industries, but it could be harder to influence the attitudes of consumers if they already have preconceived perceptions of the industry.

September 2022

1673507.indd 37

37

13/09/2022 12:03:11

Succession

How to plan for succession

It's always a tricky subject, but Mark Weaver of farm business consultants CLM shares his tips on how best to broach the topic of succession planning with family

1

PICK YOUR MOMENT Don’t choose a busy time. A period of relative quiet, when everyone isn’t exhausted, will be more effective. Remember, the earlier the conversation is started, the easier it is to have.

2

DO YOUR PREP Writing down key points can help you organise your thoughts. Fully understand your own aspirations and try to remove as much emotion as possible from the conversation.

3

DON’T SPOOK THEM The aim is to make your family want to talk about the subject, rather than make them feel uncomfortable or even see it as a threat.

Stress this is in no way about you trying to wrestle control from them. Remind them a succession plan is important for the long-term financial future of the farm.

4

THIRD-PARTY Having an independent, objective person in the room (perhaps a trusted family friend or an adviser associated with the business) can bring clarity and calmness to proceedings, as well as ensuring momentum is maintained.

5

SLOWLY-SLOWLY Some succession plans work best when a member of the next-gen initially takes responsibility for one enterprise. Is there one you are particularly keen on and experienced in you could lead on? Agreeing some goals and measures of success for this could be a way for you to demonstrate your competence and ambition.

38

1706083.indd 38

6

NUMBER-CRUNCH More established members of the family business will be likely to take the conversation seriously if you come up with a plan showing your suggestions for how the business should move forward. Provide some details and figures, but don’t present these as a fait-accompli.

This is a starting point.

7

HIGHLIGHT THE WINS Preparing for succession is about making sure everybody is doing what they’re best at – and what they want to do – for the overall good of the business and everyone associated with it.

8

BE FRANK Set out in an honest, constructive and collaborative way what your hopes and dreams are. Make sure everyone feels comfortable sharing their opinions and let everyone have their say. This will usually involve siblings and potentially the wider family, too.

9

LISTEN Try to see things from other people’s point of view. It’s understandable why some parents are reluctant to engage with this topic, because it can be hard to take one’s hands off the reins and no one wants to feel dispensable. Some negotiation – and ultimately flexibility – on all sides might be necessary.

10

KEEP GOING View this an ongoing process, rather than as a one-off conversation. Don’t be disheartened. Being proactive can save time, money and heartache.

September 2022

13/09/2022 12:03:17

• Moreton Morrell // September 24th and October 8th

• Pershore // November 19th

September 2022

1682350.indd 39

39

13/09/2022 12:06:01

Maximising the value of your wool

Free haulage from all British Wool drop-off sites.

We understand that our members face increasing cost pressure, which is why all deliveries to British Wool drop off sites now benefit from free onward haulage.

As a farmer co-operative owned by sheep farmers, everything we do is about adding value to British wool to maximise the returns to our members. We do this by efficiently collecting, grading and selling British wool, minimising price volatility and maximising returns.

We recognise that wool prices have been under pressure but, in these uncertain times, you know it pays to stick together. And, with our expanding network of collection sites, it has never been more convenient.

To find your nearest site visit

britishwool.org.uk/depot-network

Together we’re growing something special.

1682351.indd 40

13/09/2022 12:06:03