Farming Connect is looking for farmers to be part of the new discussion groups programme. The programme aims to develop knowledge and confidence across a wide range of topics that will contribute towards the economic and environmental progress of members’ businesses.
What is a discussion group?
Membership will be made up of farmers with an interest in one specific sector, with meetings held face to face, 4 times in 12 months (April – March).
Meetings will be facilitated by one of our Discussion Group Officers, who will arrange a programme to meet the group’s specific requirements and needs.
Each group will have an average membership of around 12 individuals. Group activity is fully funded by Farming Connect.
Group Activity is fully funded by Farming Connect, and with the full commitment of group members, they are expected to run for the length of the programme.
What will members gain from being part of a group?
- According to a report on red meat groups in the previous programme, membership and benchmarking within those groups led to sustained improvements in profit and efficiency.
- A Return on Investment (Return on Investment) analysis was carried out on discussion groups in the previous Farming Connect programme. This showed a return to the industry of £15.71 for every £1 invested in the discussion groups programme.
- Members will have the opportunity to work with specialists within the industry, as well as receiving support from fellow group members and the Discussion Group Officer.
- Attendance at a Discussion Group can count towards UA4 CPD hours in the Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS).
- Benchmarking support (SFS UA3 requirements).
- A digital communication group will be created for each discussion group, providing a platform to ask questions and share knowledge between meetings.
What will we expect from members?
- You must be registered with Farming Connect (re-registration via RPW Online and ‘One Login’ is required).
- Willingness to benchmark.
- Willingness to attend every meeting.
- Willingness to be part of a digital communication group.
How do I apply?
Click on the link below to complete the application form.
Application window opens 20/04/2026 and closes 08/05/2026 at 10pm.
If you need any support, please contact your local Development Officer.
**We cannot guarantee that your preferred group will be available in your local area. Provision of the groups will depend on demand and there being a sufficient number of members for them to be established.**