Farming Opportunities for New Entrants Group (FONE): information pack

FONE priorities for 2024-2025

While all FONE group members have the responsibility to report opportunities for New Entrants to the group, FONE members are divided into two groups with focussed priorities. These priorities are agreed and updated on an annual basis.

Priorities represented by Permanent FONE Group

1. Continue beyond the public sector and engage with private estates and owner occupiers in Scotland to explore further New Entrant opportunities.

2. Provide a forum to discuss and support the co-development of New Entrant policy.

3. Provide complementary governance of New Entrant support provided by the Scottish Government. This includes: the Scottish Land Matching Service, Next Generation Practical Training Fund, Land-based Pre-apprenticeship Programme.

Priorities represented by Council FONE Group

1. Identify and make available 600 hectares of publicly owned land in Scotland to New Entrants.

2. Advocate the importance and prominence of New Entrants in the sector. Ensuring the interests of New Entrants and the Next Generation are represented in future governmental and non-governmental policy.

3. To provide a council to share progress, challenges, and opportunities across a range of government and non-governmental support for New Entrants in Scotland.

4. Work with stakeholders to develop a consistent narrative of what is possible in terms of making best use of Crofts and attracting New Entrants.

5. Highlight promotional material to include: guidance, support, case studies, and signposting for New Entrants and the Next Generation.

6. Maintain Cabinet Secretary and Ministerial engagement with the FONE group.