UK-wide programme offers advice on farm succession planning
© Adobe Stock A new UK-wide programme is offering support for farming families tackling one of agriculture’s most sensitive and pressing issues – inheritance and succession planning.
The Succession Families Forum, launched by the Succession Alliance, is a six-month initiative designed to bring generations together to have open, structured conversations about the future of their farm business.
With practical tools and expert guidance, the programme aims to turn what is often a source of tension into a pathway for clarity and long-term success.
See also: Farm futures at risk: Why succession talks can’t wait
“Succession doesn’t happen by chance, it happens by choice,” said Michael Mack, founder of the Succession Alliance.
“Too often, families leave these conversations until it’s too late, which can lead to conflict, uncertainty, and lost opportunities. This programme gives them the tools, space, and expert support to get it right.”
The programme kicks off with full-day workshops in Lanarkshire (2 October) and Warwickshire (4 October), followed by five monthly online sessions led by industry experts including Mr Mack, Heather Wildman, Andy Guy, and Matt Swain.
Michael Mack, Matt Swain, Andy Guy, Heather Wildman, Peter Craven and Becky Miles © Succession Alliance
Peer support
Mr Mack stressed the value of shared experience, saying: “The two opening sessions are about getting people in the room together.
“After that there will be a lot of peer support – being in that space with other farming families and being able to talk about this issue openly.”
“This isn’t just a one-off training day,” he added. “It’s about an ongoing support plan. And if it’s a success, we will be running it every six months.”
Vice-chairman Heather Wildman said: “These conversations can be emotional and complex, but they don’t have to be negative.
“With the right structure and guidance, families can make decisions that strengthen both the business and their relationships.”
Families can register their interest online at successionalliance.com. Details of costs are available upon request.