We here at McVeigh Parker love farming, but recent statistics have revealed that a love for the long-held British profession is dwindling - especially amongst young people.

Studies conducted by Barclays Bank between October and November found that only 3% of 18-30-year-olds saw farming as a desirable career choice.

Compare this to an increase of over 70% of 64-year-olds and above in the profession, it’s clear the career seems to be skewed towards the older generation. In relation, the number of under 25s taking up a job in farming fell by almost two thirds within the same period.

Clearing up misconceptions

The decline has prompted Barclays Bank to launch it’s nationwide ‘Farm The Future’ campaign in an attempt to inspire more young people to take up the profession. With the help of JLS boyband member and TV presenter JB Gill, they hope to start by clearing up some misconceptions around farming.

One issue raised was the belief that young people could not afford to become farmers. Of those surveyed, over half (59%) believed they wouldn’t be able to afford to become a farmer due to a lack of funds.

Elsewhere, the survey also revealed a strong belief that you have to inherit land to stand a chance of being a successful farmer - something that is unlikely for the vast majority of under 25s.

However, the campaign has noted that this simply is not the case. For example, share farming allows young people to work with existing farmers looking to retire and share the input costs and revenue, while still allowing both to run separate businesses. Naturally, these make overall costs much lower and therefore far easier for young people to break into the profession.

Additional funding

The campaign is also drawing attention to the various other ways that can help young people break into the profession.

In terms of funding for land and buildings, agricultural mortgages provide a way for prospective farmers to acquire some land if they are not able to secure a share farming agreement.

Alternatively, funding options such as rural project loans and the agricultural fund mean money should never have to be a limiting option for those wishing to take up farming,

Looking to sow the seeds for a successful farming career? Mcveigh Parker offers a wide range of agricultural equipment that is sure to get your farming career off to the right start!

Browse our range online, or drop us a call today.