FRESH START FOR RURAL BUSINESS

Well what a busy couple of months we have had. There is so much going on in the rural economy at the moment, particularly funding for training and rural business development.

But first the Fresh Start academy launch which took place on 16th October. What a great night it was, and I was very proud to be amongst so many people with a passion for agriculture. We were very privileged that the event was attended by Johnathan Shaw MP, Minister for Marine, Landscape & Rural Affairs and Minister for the South East. In his address to the 50+ guests , of which 18 were candidates, Mr Shaw said “Farming was, is, and always will be one of our country’s biggest assets. But, most importantly, farming has a future. And that is what we are here to emphasise today. It’s a future we’re responsible for. One that has to be a real priority for all of us – as farmers, politicians, consumers, and citizens. In 2006, UK farming contributed £5.6 billion to our economy and employed over half a million people. The industry has long been involved in shaping and maintaining our most precious landscapes – providing the gateway to some of our most beautiful scenery. I am very proud of the way ‘Fresh Start’, and the Academies in particular, have developed. The way it is being driven forward from within the industry itself. And I am proud that DEFRA is supporting it.”

I recently attended a meeting in London with other fresh start coordinators from around the country, it was good to exchange ideas and contacts, as well as get to know each other better. We also met with Sir Don Curry, and other influential people, to discuss the issues facing both new entrants to farming and those looking to exit the industry. There are major issues relating to the latter, and a lot of work will need to be undertaken, to allow for changes in attitude to retirement and succession with in land based industries.

So what else has happened since our last blog. Well there is lots going on the funding front. The new Rural Development Plan for England is now being worked out, and there will be substantial amounts of funds available to rural businesses in the South East through various projects. These will be administered through the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA), who also support fresh start. The funds will be available for training, capital expenditure, community projects as well as many other things. The new LEADA initiatives will also allow greater access to RDPE money for community activities that have an environmental and agricultural slant. It is important that you contact local LEADA Action Groups (LAG) with ideas of what you need in your area. Watch this space for more information and details, over the next few weeks.

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Kate Mason