In the beautiful rural Cotswolds, where I live, I recently had a conversation with a local farmer that left me deeply reflecting on the importance of British farming, not only for our food but also for our families’ health and nutrition. This farmer, now past retirement age, described the lack of interest from the younger generation in taking over the family farm. It’s a growing problem across the UK—new apprentices eager to learn the hard work that farming requires are becoming harder to find.
This conversation led me to realise that our food chain is facing serious challenges.
The Decline of British Farming
British farmers are disappearing at an alarming rate. The issue of food security should be at the forefront of our minds. Imagine a world where we rely entirely on imports for our food. Should we really depend on other countries for something as essential as what we feed our families?
Farmers are facing unprecedented pressure. Supermarkets dominate the market, pricing farmers out with unsustainable margins. Unnecessary regulations further hinder their ability to operate efficiently, making it harder for them to keep up with the increasing demands of modern farming.
Additionally, the government has introduced a lump-sum exit scheme through DEFRA, which is incentivising farmers to leave the industry. While some may see this as an opportunity for older farmers to retire, it spells disaster for the future of British farming, especially when there are so few young people willing or able to take over.
The Benefits of Local Farms
We are fortunate to live in an area where local dairies offer organic, un-homogenised milk and local farms provide grass-fed, ethically raised meat. But as British farms face ever-growing challenges, the ability to access these important, healthier, more sustainable food options could disappear.
Why We Must Support British Farmers
British farmers are struggling. Extreme weather events, such as flooding and unpredictable conditions, have made it harder to grow crops. Sudden surges in energy prices and unfavourable trade deals have only compounded their difficulties. Guy Singh-Watson, founder of Riverford, expressed his frustration in an interview with The Guardian:
“…with mounting frustration, suggestions by some academics that rising temperatures and levels of CO2 in the atmosphere increase the potential for photosynthesis and, therefore, crop yields.
Farmers don’t work in a lab. It is not averages that determine our crop performance, it is the extremes that have to be managed in order to give the crop any chance of approaching its theoretical maximum yield.”
Farming isn’t just a profession for many—it’s a deeply emotional investment. Leaving the land isn’t an easy decision for most farmers. Unlike other industries, farming requires a connection to the land that is hard to sever. Yet, many farmers are reaching a breaking point.
In fact, a petition led by Guy Singh-Watson earlier this year gathered over 113,000 signatures, demanding a fair deal for farmers. During the debate in Parliament, 49 scarecrows symbolised the 49% of fruit and vegetable growers who fear going out of business if conditions don’t improve. You can watch more here: Get Fair About Farming
How You Can Help
Supporting British farmers isn’t just about where we shop—it’s about making conscious choices for our families’ health and our country’s food security. Here are some practical ways you can get involved:
1. Shop at local farm shops – Buying directly from farmers ensures that they receive a fair price for their hard work, unlike purchasing from supermarkets where profits often go to shareholders.
2. Build relationships with local farmers – Get to know your local food producers and show them that the public values their efforts. You may even find opportunities to buy directly from them, ensuring you get the freshest produce while supporting their livelihood.
3. Volunteer at community farms – Many farms need extra hands, whether for planting, harvesting, or general support. It’s a great way to connect with the land and help those producing your food.
4. Grow your own – Consider growing your own fruit and vegetables, either in your garden or community allotment. You can even share resources with friends and family by dividing the work.
5. Support initiatives like The People’s Food and Farming Alliance (PFFA) – The PFFA offers valuable advice on growing your own produce, managing small livestock, and even foraging. This initiative helps everyone, even those on tight budgets, to grow their own food, offering a sustainable and self-sufficient alternative to supermarket dependency.
Make Conscious Shopping Choices
Our food production system is becoming far from ideal. Much of the meat commonly available comes from industrially farmed animals that are fed unnatural diets, resulting in products that are neither as tasty nor as healthy as they should be. Additionally, a significant portion of the fruit and vegetables we consume are grown through intensive farming practices, which not only pollute the environment but also leave behind unnecessary chemical residue. The good news is that we can drive change—because, for now, we still have the power to choose where and how we source our food.
While local farming options are ideal, there are also many small online retailers that specialise in delivering non-GMO, organic, and locally sourced produce right to your door. Supporting these businesses can help reduce your reliance on supermarket chains, and ensure that your money is going to those who are truly committed to ethical and sustainable farming practices.
The choices we make today can shape the future of our food security and the health of our families. By supporting local farmers, shopping conscientiously, and even growing our own food, we can help ensure that the British farming industry thrives. Farmers are the backbone of our food system. By taking action—whether it’s buying directly from a farm shop, or simply being more mindful of where your food comes from—we can safeguard the future of British farming and enjoy healthier, more nutritious food on our tables.