Women In Dairy, a new group for those working in the sector has been officially launched.
Membership is open to women directly engaged in dairy farming, along with those with an association and wanting to make a difference to the sector through collaboration.
Groups have so far been established in two regions: Cheshire and surrounding areas is being overseen by Promar International, whilst DairyCo is managing the South West.
The initiative has been developed by RABDF Foundation for Collaboration – the Government’s £5m Dairy Fund package designed to enable English producers to strengthen their businesses through co-operation and ultimately secure their long term future in the sector.
The Women in Dairy groups’ wide ranging objectives so far include to help achieve a better understanding of finance and the concept of dairy farm business benchmarking, improve technical knowledge, get to grips with succession planning and to raise the overall profile of dairy.
“Women have an integral part to play on their own family dairy units, from involvement in outdoor day to day operations to managing farm offices, whilst others have responsible roles in the supply sector. Each has a massive role to play which is frequently underestimated and working in isolation,” says RABDF Foundation for Collaboration project co-ordinator, Lucy Mellor.
“This group is designed to bring together women who have one thing in common – dairy. Its key role is sharing of information and ideas, as well as brainstorming in a relaxing friendly environment.”
Next meeting: Cheshire and surrounding areas group, 17 December, Stapeley, Nantwich. For further information please contact group facilitator, Lisa Williams on 07971 118667 or lisa.williams@genusplc.com
