Investment in training is crucial for small farming businesses to be safe, productive and sustainable.

In Wales, Farming Connect is a Knowledge Transfer, Innovation and Advisory Service for farming businesses, funded by Welsh Government. Lantra leads on the delivery of the Lifelong Learning and Development Programme, which centres on training to develop a farming workforce equipped to take on current and future challenges.

Kevin Thomas, Director at Lantra Wales said: “We have reached over 6000 farm businesses since 2009 through our work with Farming Connect”.

“The programme is contributing to a shift towards a more proactive way of managing small farm businesses, which is focused on making continuous improvements. These businesses are likely to be more resilient and productive, which brings benefits to the bottom line”.

Ernie Richards, a shepherd from Hay-on-Wye, recently spoke to BBC Farming Today about the value of investment in training.

Ernie said: “Farmers have to possess a diverse range of skills – they are mechanics, soil scientists, accountants, agronomists and livestock husbandry specialists. For these small farming businesses taking time out to undertake training is a challenge but is a worthwhile investment.”

“Effective training saves you time in the long run by reducing the effort put into solving common problems or trying to understand business theory. Ultimately, training builds a strengthened business mindset which improves performance.”

Further details about the Farming Connect service is available here: Farming Connect Agriculture & Horticulture | Lantra - Wales.

The podcast recording on BBC Farming Today is accessible here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m001w7sk.