New nationwide campaign aims to inspire next generation of farmers

Inspiring the next generation of farming entrants is the driving focus of a new nationwide campaign, as the industry faces more challenges than ever before in preparing for the future.

Banking giants, Barclays, have this week launched #FarmtheFuture, aimed at encouraging farmers to start having conversations about the “tremendously important” topic of succession planning.

It comes as new research carried out by the company reveals that Britain’s farming population is ageing rapidly. The number of British farmers aged over 65 has increased by 70% in the last decade, while the proportion of under-25s running farms has dropped by two thirds (63%) over the same period.

Mark Suthern, national head of agriculture at Barclays, said: “Every industry, especially farming and agriculture, needs new talent to innovate and look to new markets, and the next generation will be vital as the sector strives to boost productivity and drive growth.

“Succession planning is a tremendously important topic and we’re leading the way in encouraging Britain’s farmers to start having these conversations.

“British farmers have proven time and again their ability to diversify, innovate, and weather tricky economic conditions, so the skill and experiences the older generation can bring are vital. But the next generation need to learn the skills to carry businesses forward in the future.”

According to the research, just 3% of 18-30 year olds surveyed said they would view farming and agriculture as a desirable career, despite the job meeting many of the criteria young people look for in employment.

A lack of understanding and a perceived lack of resources appear to be the key things putting young people off a career in farming, the firm adds. Over half (59%) believed they wouldn’t be able to afford to become a farmer, while 43% thought they needed to inherit land.

Determined to bust these myths, Barclays has also teamed up with former JLS band member turned turkey and pig farmer, JB Gill, to help sow the seeds with young people about how the staple elements of farming and agriculture could tick all the boxes for their dream job.

Over three quarters of millennials (76%) said staying physically fit and healthy while working was important to them and nearly half (48%) said they would like to work with animals.

Mr Gill said: “There’s a lot of misconceptions among young people about what a career in agriculture really means. It’s hard, physical work so it keeps you fit, you get to work with animals, you’re your own boss and you can keep up with the trends by posting everything on social media for everyone else to see.

“The farming community is really welcoming, providing newcomers with knowledge on everything from tending to animals to financial advice.”

He added: “You don’t need to have your own land to work in agriculture, there are many options from farm management through to the service industries and I would encourage anyone interested to give it some serious consideration – it’s a life like no other!”

Farming and rural affairs reporter @AthwennaWMN ‘It’s hard, physical work so it keeps you fit, you get to work with animals, you’re your own boss’