Women in Agriculture events

Inspiring events for women in agriculture

A series of free events offering inspiration and advice for women working in Scottish agriculture has been announced.

The women-only events, which will take place from the Borders up to Orkney, have been organised by the Scottish Government’s Farm Advisory Service (FAS) programme.

Taking place from 13-26 March, they will cover a range of topics, from accounts and mental health awareness to diversification opportunities and even the role of social media.

Announced to coincide with International Women’s Day on Thursday 8 March, the events follow research by the Scottish Government’s Rural and Environment Science and Analytical Services Division (RESAS).

Last summer’s report, entitled Women in Farming and the Agriculture Sector, highlighted the major role women play in Scottish agriculture and recommended a series of measures to address the “conscious and unconscious bias” within the industry.

Event programme:

• 13 March: Carfraemill Hotel, Borders – Understanding Accounts and Business Planning

• 14 March: New Lanark Hotel, Lanark – Understanding Accounts and Business Planning

• 15 March: (pm) Ayre Hotel, Kirkwall, Orkney – Mental health

• 16 March: (am) Ayre Hotel, Kirkwall, Orkney – Mental health

• 20 March: Craigellachie, Morayshire – Food and drink diversification opportunities

• 21 March: Banchory, Aberdeenshire – Diversification opportunities

• 23 March: Inveraray Inn, Argyll – Livestock records and accounts

• 26 March: Kingsmills Hotels, Inverness – IACS and grants and social media in farming

• 27 March: Ulbster Arms Hotel, Halkirk, Caithness – Diversification opportunities

• 28 March: Brechin, Aberdeenshire – Diversification opportunities

Siobhan Macdonald from SRUC, who helped to co-ordinate the events, said: “Women working in Scottish agriculture face a number of challenges but there are also many opportunities available. These free events are a great chance for women to find out more about these opportunities, to share ideas and to be inspired by a range of speakers.”

The events are free but places must be booked in advance. To find out more and to book a place, click on your preferred event above or alternatively, call the FAS helpline on 0300 323 0161.