Full marks for mentoring

Grow your farming business and improve technical skills through free mentoring support

A recent survey by the Farm Advisory Service (FAS) found that – 100% of farmers and crofters who have used its mentoring service would recommend it to others.

In addition, over two thirds of respondents reported benefitting from the following improvements as a result of receiving mentoring support:

• Livestock/crop improvements
• Improved soil management
• Better business planning/decision-making
• Financial benefit from reduced costs/overheads
• Improved profit margin
• More awareness of how to comply with agricultural legislation

Through FAS, new entrants to farming can access up to 4 days of one-to-one time with a personal mentor, for help and support with issues specific to their business.

Benefit from being paired with an experienced farmer or crofter in your sector, who can provide tailored support and advice on how to manage setup and growth of your business. Typical skills that mentors offer include experience of running a farming business, knowledge of agriculture and the food and drink industry, and practical skills that can help new farmers and business owners develop capacity in new areas e.g. stone walling, hedge laying, drenching, shearing, lambing etc.

Mentoring is a great way to access the tools and knowledge you need to successfully navigate those vital early growth years and more importantly, avoid the common pitfalls to success. The mentors’ time is fully subsidised by FAS, so there is no cost to the participating farmer/business owner.

Apply today, there is nothing to lose.

To apply or for more information, click here. Alternatively, call 0300 323 0161 or email advice@fas.scot.

*Mentoring support is available to those who have set up or become head of a farming business within the last five years. You will need to be registered in Scotland with the Integrated Administration and Control System (IACS) and hold a Business Reference Number (BRN).