Doubts cast over future Defra funding for NFYFC

Defra has ended grant funding that has supported the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs (NFYFC) for more than 30 years, the federation says.

NFYFC says it was told in July that the current discretionary funding would not be renewed – a move the organisation described as “disappointing” but not the end of its work with government.

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“We remain an active stakeholder, representing the views of our members and the next generation,” NFYFC said in a statement.

However, a Defra spokesman said: “No decisions on funding have been made yet and to suggest otherwise is false.

“We’ve provided £30,000 to support the important work of the National Federation of Young Farmers Clubs in the 2025-26 financial year. 

“We are working with the farmers to build a more profitable farming system with food production at its core and helps restore nature in an uncertain world.”

While modest, the federation said the grant enabled it to work closely with policymakers, delivering training, events and research to help young people navigate emerging agricultural policy.

It did not reveal how much money was involved, but said: “The small grant enabled NFYFC to make emerging policy tangible for the next generation. We are proud of the work we have achieved over many years with the help of the Defra grant.”

Shadow farming minister Robbie Moore said it was “outrageous” to hear prime minister Sir Keir Starmer pledge he “would work with” young farmers, only for Defra to then pull the NFYFC grant.

“In the grand scheme of things the NFYFC costs government a tiny sum, but makes a massive difference, not just for young farmers but all young people interested in agriculture and the countryside,” Mr Moore wrote on X.

“Labour are not just going after farming businesses, and those older farmers fearing inheritance taxes, they’re coming for the next generation as well. Outrageous.”

With no further public comment, NFYFC said it was now actively seeking alternative sources of support to continue its work.