The NFU in Derbyshire and the Peak District Rural Action Zone Pathfinder initiative are holding an open evening for young people interested in finding out more about a career in the land-based industries in Derbyshire.
Aimed at 15 – 30 year olds, the free event, from 5.30pm on Wednesday 22 November at the Agricultural Business Centre, Bakewell, will provide an opportunity for young people to talk to different organisations about starting a business, gaining a qualification or finding a job in a diverse range of rural occupations. And hear at first hand from people who have experience in starting and running a land-based business.
Derbyshire NFU chairman, Robert Helliwell, who farms in the Hope Valley, is the driving force behind the event. He said: "Our beautiful county depends on farming and the land based skills for its livelihood, whether that's in primary agricultural production, which gives the county its stunning backdrop, in tourism or environmental management. As the industry changes, we need to attract the next generation back to the land.
"There are many great opportunities to work in the land-based sector, perhaps by gaining a qualification in marketing or business studies to help with a farming or tourism enterprise, or by learning a new skill like dry-stone-walling or hedge-laying. What could be better than working amidst Derbyshire's wonderful scenery and friendly rural communities?"
The event is funded by the Peak District Rural Action Zone (RAZ) Pathfinder which is exploring new ways of delivering services and support to rural businesses.
Pathfinder officer, Rob Jones, based at Rural Action Zone office in Bakewell, said:
"Land based businesses have undergone many changes over the last few years, and have seen a number of people move away from the industry. The NFU and the Peak District Rural Pathfinder have joined forces to provide an event for young people, who are living, working or wanting to enter the land based sector. The young peoples' event will provide support, advice and inspiration to all, and show that there are countless career opportunities to be had in what is turning into a very diverse, creative and essential part of rural England."
The event will be held at the Agricultural Business Centre, Bakewell on Wednesday 22 November from 5.30pm. During the evening, speakers who have experience of starting up in farming or of developing a new enterprise in the land based industries will speak. Organisations and businesses from around the county will be on hand to discuss the opportunities available to young people, including how to access grant funding and advice in all areas of starting and running a rural enterprise.