Young farmers need backing – not just in spirit, but in strategy

By Christ Wright, Consultant and ARA specialist

If you’ve been watching the new series of Clarkson’s Farm, you’ll have seen Harriet Cowan in action,  the 24-year-old Derbyshire farmer who stepped in while Kaleb Cooper was off touring theatres.

Harriet is sharp, practical, and completely unfazed by Jeremy Clarkson.

While she works on her family’s farm, Harriet represents a growing number of younger farmers making a name for themselves through hard work, not just inheritance.

Kaleb himself has become something of a poster boy for this. At 26, he’s built a successful contracting business, become a voice for young farmers, and helped make the case (in his own way) for why farming matters.

But behind the laughs and arguments with Clarkson is a very real challenge: how do we make sure young farmers like Kaleb and Harriet aren’t just inspired to start out, but actually able to build something sustainable?

Farming is a business – and young farmers are business owners

For those new to the industry, the learning curve is steep.

Buying kit, renting land, balancing seasonal income with year-round costs, it is no small task.

With little financial buffer, the stakes are often high.

We see the pressure young contractors and start-ups are under.

We also see where a bit of early guidance can make a huge difference, whether it is setting up the right business structure, getting tax relief on new machinery, managing cashflow through lean months, or accessing rural grants.

This is about helping young farmers feel in control. About giving them tools and options, not just telling them what’s due and when.

Investing in the future of British farming

The more we support young farmers not just in spirit, but in strategy, the better chance they have of building something that lasts.

If you are a new entrant to farming, or helping one get started, don’t wait for the tax bill to land or the overdraft to tip over. Speak to us today for financial advice and support.