Winchester MP champions ‘Farm First’ scheme to boost career opportunities for young people in rural areas

Recent Government statistics reveal that only 1 in 20 farmers (5%) are under the age of 35, raising serious concerns about the long term viability of the sector. Danny Chambers has warned that the UK risks losing a generation of farmers unless the Government takes urgent steps to make agricultural careers more accessible and attractive to young people.

The Liberal Democrat ‘Farm First’ plan, backed by Danny Chambers, calls for the establishment of a farming equivalent to Teach First to attract young people into the sector, providing them with a clear career path and a salaried year of sustainable farming experience, training and skills, helping ensure jobs in the agricultural sector are better connected with the careers system.

The proposals also call for stronger education on nutrition and home grown food production to support future generations and combat rising food poverty. Currently, 1 in 5 children (18%) and 1 in 10 households (11%) are living in food poverty. The Liberal Democrats argue that improving understanding of where food comes from within the UK, harnessing more locally grown produce, and widening access to agricultural training must form the backbone of a resilient domestic food system.

Danny Chambers, Liberal Democrat MP for Winchester said:

“It’s outrageous that so many families are struggling to afford food while our farmers across Hampshire are being pushed to the brink, hammered by soaring input costs, trade barriers and the looming threat of new taxes.

“We need a complete reset in how this country values farming and its critical place underpinning the wider economy. A ‘Farm First’ scheme would give young people a strong new route into agriculture, with the training and confidence to build a future in the industry. 

'I spent a lot of my veterinary career working with farmers, treating their animals, and found it really fulfilling. I want young people to be able to find opportunities in this wonderful industry too.'

“If the Government keeps turning a blind eye, we won’t just lose vital rural skills, we’ll jeopardise our entire food supply. No nation is secure if it can’t feed itself.”