For anyone not involved in NFYFC’s Council or part of the extensive (and growing) YFC AGRI group, you might be wondering how, as a YFC member, your voice is heard. It’s important, especially in today’s farming and rural climate, to know that your concerns, requests, feedback and suggestions are listened to and represented. AGRI Manager Sarah Palmer shares a review of YFC AGRI in 2024.
Your generation will not only play an active part in farming and land management, but you are also the people society will rely on to produce high quality food, help mitigate the effects of climate change, continue to enhance the environment and provide local, rural employment.
Not forgetting that all-important intergenerational network that’s so essential for rural communities.
What you have learnt or are currently studying or practising is relevant not only for existing business practice, but for future policy considerations, so next generation voices are more important than ever.
There will need to be continued collaboration for land-based industries, meaningful education and work towards achieving net zero ambitions.
The point of our YFC AGRI group is to create a welcoming meeting place (online or in person) for interested YFC members to discuss matters of importance and share experiences, opinions, future needs and to represent YFC members who can’t make the meetings. If you’re involved already, you know that communication is a two-way process so that we can all work together to help have our YFC members’ voices heard.
We know that young people are instrumental in culture change: you’ve already taken a lead in breaking down barriers to discuss mental health and wellbeing.
You acknowledge with relish the importance of risk assessments for YFC events, farm safety and safe use of machinery. There’s always more to do but congratulate yourselves for being great advocates for changing attitudes and encouraging good practice.
Be assured that you are continually represented at relevant industry and Defra meetings. These include the Farm Tenancy Forum, TIAH Industry Careers Group, the RPA Welfare Forum, Defra Farming and Countryside Programme Forum, Farming Advice Service Stakeholder group, Countryside Classroom, LEAF and LEAF Education, NFU Farming Orgnaisations’ Roundtable to name just a few. Where and when possible, YFC representatives are given the opportunity to attend, and feedback and opinions are gathered from the group and shared.
As the year comes to a close, in addition to the many ongoing meetings and work that ensues, two meetings with Minister of State for Food Security and Rural Affairs Daniel Zeichner are appropriate to mention.
YFC AGRI Chair Luke Cox met with the Minister at the end of November and I was part of an industry and farm support group roundtable discussing farmers’ mental health with the Minister and his team in December. Luke highlighted the biggest challenges for young farmers, access to finance and access to land.
He raised the potential benefits of the Government offering security for new entrants and enabling them to secure substantial funding from banks to help start a farming venture. Luke also emphasised the specific support needed for young farmers, which might include greater weighting or increased payment levels to those looking to invest in a career in UK agriculture and the need for guaranteed security through greater lengths of tenancies.
The topics covered at the December farmers’ mental health meeting were timely for the current climate we are working in. There was wide agreement that YFCs provide an essential rural network, not just for young people but for all generations who become involved with the many YFC activities. Added to that, your role in positive culture change and that your enthusiasm and confidence for the future must be maintained and encouraged.
It was reassuring to hear the Minister’s acknowledgement of needing home food producers and the Defra team diligently listening to the issues that affect farmers’ mental health including:
Defra's commitment for co-design offers hope for its restoration, ensuring progress and goodwill are not lost.
The Minister candidly shared the Government's challenge of managing low food price expectations driven by highly efficient retailers, emphasising that food security is an essential part of national security.
It was, of course, emphasised by those present that words of support must translate into action to help the future viability of businesses that will help to achieve many of the government’s targets.
If we are to do more with less, this will need an honest, collaborative effort where all parties listen and learn, appreciate the tasks ahead with the support and attitude needed to achieve results.
It has been reported that the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has confirmed work is underway to develop a food strategy.
The government’s intentions and approach, which will begin in the New Year, include:
With a keenness from Defra to continue to engage constructively with the sector as a strategy is developed, there are plenty more opportunities for further input and discussion.
The importance of sharing your views and making your voice heard has always been vital – but it’s never been more crucial than it is today.
Please continue discussions, join meetings and answer calls for evidence, case studies and feedback for future representation.
Make sure you play your part in 2025!
