Parliamentary praise for women's agriculture training fund
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A TRAINING fund which aims to support women in agriculture has won praise in the Scottish Parliament.
The Scottish Government’s Women in Agriculture Practical Training Fund, which is currently accepting applications, helps women develop skills for a fast-changing industry and break down barriers in what is a largely male-dominated sector.
Banffshire and Buchan Coast MSP has lodged a parliamentary motion drawing attention to the work of the fund.
She said: “Women in agriculture are undoubtedly faced with unique challenges within the industry. It is vital to the future of our rural communities that we support women who are new entrants to the sector in a way that addresses the particular challenges we are often faced with.
“I want to see more women having the opportunity to develop their skills, and talents and having a career in agriculture. That’s why I am delighted the Scottish Government are supporting a new generation of women into the sector to support its long-term sustainability.
“In addition to the new entrant support that is available through the Farm Advisory Service, the Scottish Government have committed £300,000 in the current financial year and £400,000 in the next financial year to bring practical solutions to support women with this.
“The Women in Agriculture Practical Training Fund is an incredible resource and I would encourage everyone who is eligible and has an interest in agriculture to make use of the funding available and apply.”
She went on to say that Brexit has exacerbated labour shortages in an industry that was already experiencing recruitment difficulties, making removing the barriers women face in the workplace, particularly agriculture has become more pressing than ever to ensure Scotland continues to thrive.
The programme, delivered by Lantra Scotland, has supported over 400 women and girls across Scotland, helping to develop a highly skilled agriculture workforce.
It is open to any woman or girl resident in Scotland who is either already working in or studying agriculture, full-time or part-time, or who is keen to start.
For more information, and to apply, visit https://www.scotland.lantra.co.uk/women-agriculture-practical-training-fund
Commenting, SNP MSP for Banffshire & Buchan Coast, Karen Adam said:
