Scottish young farmers receive £30,000 government grant

Young farmers in Scotland are to benefit from £30,000 of government money aimed at opportunities for agricultural training.

Details of the funding package emerged on Wednesday (20 January) – a week after the Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs (SAYFC) revealed the Scottish government had pulled its annual £66,000 grant.

The decision to scrap the annual grant drew fierce criticism from farm leaders and politicians.

See also: Scottish YFC loses £66,000 government grant

However, the latest package was agreed following a meeting between SAYFC leaders and Scotland’s minister for young people, Aileen Campbell. The funding is for the 2016-17 financial year.

SAYFC national chairman Scott Wilson said: “We are grateful for this funding offer, which will help ensure we can continue providing personal development opportunities for rural youth throughout Scotland.

“The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss with Aileen Campbell the association and its value to young people. We look forward to working with Richard Lochhead and his team.”

During the meeting, the SAYFC updated the minister on its plans for securing the long-term sustainability of its organisation, and the use it is making of the advisory support package provided through Lloyds Foundation, including advice on alternative funding sources and assistance with presenting proposals.

Scottish rural affairs secretary Richard Lochhead said: “I am firmly committed to helping increase opportunities for young farmers and other young people in rural communities, and I recognise the valuable work of the SAYFC.

“I look forward to its continued involvement in helping to realise my vision of a productive, innovative and profitable future for Scottish farming.”