We can do our bit to effect change in parts of dairy industry

We felt that it was important to address the programme shown on BBC’s Panorama this week: A cows life: The true cost of milk?

It’s not one for the fainthearted and as with any exposé they are often unable to expose the full extent of the problems and, equally, it can be hard to show those tackling the issues well.

What it has done,is heavily compound the reasons why we are trying to make a stand in the milk industry. We buy the way we buy, doing as much due diligence as we can, to do our part to ensure that the farmers receive a fair price for their product and in turn can ensure the welfare of their animals.

This episode in particular paints a horrific picture of what is happening on some dairy farms, as well as showing what can be achieved when farmers have the investment and inclination to make a difference.

Milk prices have been so very low, and for such a long time, that farmers in a position to make these changes are few and far between. As consumers, we have the power. We create the demand and industry aims to meet it with cost effective solutions.

Sadly, part of that demand is for low-cost milk and in our industry it often comes at the cost of the farmers and, ultimately, can result in the vile mistreatment of animals. There is never a situation where this is acceptable. Ever.

We can vote with our wallets and put our money into those farmers who care about their herds as much as they do their bottom line.

You can trust us to do our very best to make your voices heard.

While we know costs are rising and it’s hard for everyone right now to make ends meet, it can’t be right to continue to sell something at an unsustainable price.

We are so proud of our customers; we feel privileged to have such an engaged community helping us to make a difference.

Together, the more we can steer people, family and friends away from cheap supermarket milk - the quicker we can do our bit to help effect the change we all want to see in the industry.

THE DIRECTORS Southern Dairies, Yapton Road, Climping