Who we are

Farm is a not-for-profit organisation run by a network of volunteers who share a similar vision for the future of sustainable farming in the UK. We are fortunate to be able to draw upon a wide range of expertise that covers the whole food chain and the environment within which it functions.

 

Farmers

FARM was established to promote the interests of small and family farms within the UK. These categories suggest a certain style of farming; usually one that is extensive, probably mixed and one where economic viability is balanced by a duty of care within social and environmental aspects of farming.

However, these distinctions are by no means exclusive to a particular size of farm and we recognise that there are examples of good farming practice to be found amongst the largest of estates and equally, examples of poor standards to be found in small units, particularly where years of under investment and isolation have perpetuated styles of farming that today’s markets would consider wanting.

The terms “family farms” and “traditional farming” prove to be equally difficult to use as sole justification for special treatment in terms of political or public support. And conversely, amongst “hobby farmers”, a term often seen as dismissive, we can find some of the best entrepreneurs whose standards of husbandry deserves greater recognition than is often credited.

Above all, we recognise that a viable future for small and medium sized farms will depend on the ability to cooperate. We are fortunate to have amongst us a group of farmers who understand that the future of their farms is inextricably linked to the future of viable, sustainable farming as a whole, and therefore they set aside time alongside running their own farm businesses to contribute to the work of FARM.
 

Environmental experts and campaigners

Although much of the farming press often seem to suggest there is little common ground between farmers and environmentalists, our experience has shown that this is far from the truth.

Many of our farming members consider their primary role as custodians of their farmland for future generations and carry with them a wealth of knowledge about the natural flora and fauna to be found on their farms. Equally, many of the environmental campaigners have a practical knowledge of growing crops and vegetables, through which comes an understanding of soil, nutrition, plant breeding and habitat. The stereotypical image of a farmer dressed in yokel’s smock is as far from reality as that of the lentil-junkie environmentalist and it is only through dialogue that the extent of shared objectives can be fully appreciated.

Through our membership we are able to share in the expertise of those who specialise in aspects of environmental science ranging from climate change and plate tectonics to micro-biological activity within soils.

 

Consumer group representatives

FARM is a member of Sustain, the Alliance for Better Food and Farming and through their network, we are able to work with groups who specialise in health and nutrition matters. We also work with National organisations, including the National Federation of Women’s Institutes and those working in schools education.

 

Alternative food Networks

Experience has taught us that there is no single model of success for local or regional models of food distribution and that for every situation there are unique circumstances that require unique solutions.

We have also learned that feasibility studies and consultations in themselves rarely succeed in providing solutions ~ The key element is people and establishing a resource of individuals within a food chain who share a common objective is the most important ingredient for success.

FARM is actively involved in the development of alternative food network models, from local box schemes and direct sales to innovative cooperative models such as Unicorn which operates within the Manchester area.