County chairs from Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire joined YFC members and NFU members to be part of a farming roundtable at this year’s Royal Three Counties Show in June.
The collaboration with the NFU brought together the two organisations to discuss topics affecting young people working in the sector.
Nathanial Watkins from Gloucestershire helped to organise the session, which included the President and Vice President of the NFU.
“The takeaways weren’t tangible or actionable as such but they included better ideas for young people on how to navigate the agricultural world, and lessons learnt from older generations,” explained Nathanial. “It also provided key insights into the structure of the NFU and how they are supporting our generation.”
Discussion topics ranged from new entrants to how young farmers feel about the current climate – both in terms of the weather and farming business. They also discussed the family farm tax, input prices and what the NFU could do to support young people.
Nathanial felt taking part in the roundtable had led to a better understanding about what both organisations offer.
“I wholeheartedly recommend other counties explore and continue a strong relationship with the NFU. By doing this roundtable, we have increased awareness of how each of our organisations work, as well as increasing awareness about activities in the industry.”
Other counties or clubs wishing to organise a similar discussion should contact their NFU county advisor or speak to Sarah Palmer at NFYFC.
