Farm for the Future, run by The Royal Countryside Fund, is offering farming families free support, guidance and advice on business and environmental management.
The scheme is now in its third year of successfully supporting farms and 95% say they have increased confidence in their ability to plan for the future. Almost 1500 farming families have taken part in the scheme since its launch in 2021.
Maddy Taylor, head of operations at The Royal Countryside Fund, said: “Farm for the Future is a proven source of trusted advice, delivered in an approachable, relatable way. The Royal Countryside Fund, as a charity, is able to give this advice entirely impartially, and we aim to provide ongoing support to Farm for the Future farmers long after the programme has ended.
“We’re working with an excellent network of local and regional farm support groups to deliver Farm for the Future, who have an in depth understanding of the issues facing farms in their local area.”
The scheme offers over 15 hours of training and one-to-one support through partnerships with 13 local organisations and expert consultants and is available to any farm currently in receipt of BPS. Workshops are tailored to the needs of local groups with virtual sessions also available.
Amy, who took part in the Farm for the Future programme in Derbyshire, said: “We’ve gained new knowledge and feel able to adapt our business for the future, and it’s given us confidence in the business decisions we’re making.”
To find a local group, visit www.royalcountrysidefund.org.uk/farmforthefuture.
Registration for the 2023/24 programme is now open.
