Ag training fund expanded for Scots women and teenagers

An additional £75,000 of funding is available for women and girls over the age of 13 living and working in agriculture in Scotland.

The Women in Agriculture Practical Training Fund, which aims to address the gender imbalance in farming, initially opened in January 2021 and was worth £100,000.

Administered by Lantra Scotland, the scheme offers grants of up to £500 for eligible practical and technical training courses, which include: business skills; the environment and sustainability; health and safety; vehicles, machinery and equipment; finance; and plants and animals.

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Applicants could use the money to, for example, get tractor or trailer driver certificates or help train sheepdogs.

Support for courses above £500 will be assessed on a case-by-case basis by a review panel.

The fund has already helped more than 400 women and teenagers complete courses to develop skills or change careers.

The extra £75,000 of Scottish government money includes £20,000 that has been ring-fenced for applicants living in island communities.

The first batch of successful applicants will be notified by the end of January 2022.

Rural affairs secretary Mairi Gougeon said: “We want to see more women joining those who are already developing a career in Scottish agriculture – which is why it’s important that women are given these opportunities in what has been a very male-dominated industry.

“Throughout this year, we’ve heard from women and girls who have undertaken courses through the Practical Training Fund and said they have more confidence and are more knowledgeable, which is great to hear. I would encourage more women to visit the Lantra Scotland website and apply.”

More information on the fund and how to apply

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