Rural and Farming Businesses gain insights
“It was a great morning and very educational."
Rural and farming businesses gathered at Minerva Mill Innovation Centre, Alcester, for an event designed to strengthen their local agricultural community.
In a relaxed and informal setting, attendees gained valuable insights on topics ranging from health and wellbeing to legal guidance for farms and estates.
The event featured a range of expert speakers who offered practical advice and resources to help rural and farming businesses:
Vicky Griffith, from the Rural Enterprise Hub, delivered valuable insights into how rural and farming businesses can access free, fully funded business support. Vicky introduced Kerry Smith from Coventry and Warwickshire Growth Hub and Heather Docksey from Warwickshire Skills Hub and provided examples of resources available to help their rural and farming businesses access support and adapt to change.
Jane Hampson, from Warwickshire Rural Hub, then highlighted the Hub’s ongoing work supporting its members, with a strong focus on improving farmers' health and wellbeing. Jane shared how the Hub is making it easier for farmers to access essential health checks and wellbeing services, ensuring they prioritise self-care alongside their demanding work lives.
Elizabeth Lake, LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming) introduced the audience to the upcoming Open Farm Sunday on 8th June. She encouraged farmers to help raise public awareness about food production, nurturing nature and protecting the environment for future generations. Elizabeth also engaged the audience with an interactive Dairy Free Taste Test Challenge, sparking lively conversation around sustainable food choices.
The next speaker was Jo Webb (Addington Fund) who presented crucial information about the Addington Fund’s wide-ranging support for farmers from grants and housing assistance, support for first generation farmers and support for farmers planning for retirement.
Finally, Neal Patterson, Wright Hassall LLP provided clear and practical legal guidance, covering tax and succession planning, especially in light of the latest budget developments.
Rural Enterprise Hub manager, Vicky Griffith, said: "The event was engaging and well-received, sharing valuable advice and guidance for our local rural and farming community. The informal session opened up meaningful conversations and valuable partnerships. A huge thank you goes to all speakers and attendees who joined the Rural Enterprise Hub on the day, helping work towards a resilient and sustainable future for our rural and farming businesses.
Attendees spoke positively about the event, highlighting the value of connecting with others and gaining fresh insights.
Jo Webb commented: “I really enjoyed the day and appreciated the opportunity to meet people I wouldn’t usually cross paths with, including Warwickshire Skills Hub and the representatives from Warwick University and the Coventry & Warwickshire Growth Hub”
Neal Patterson, Wright Hassall LLP said: “It was a great morning and very educational. I hope to see everyone again soon and am hoping to attend the next Minerva Mill Alcester Business Club Networking Breakfast”
Jane Hampson, Warwickshire Rural Hub, also expressed her appreciation. “Thank you for organising the Fields of Opportunity session at Minerva Mill," she said. I found it really valuable for networking and for learning more about the work of other organisations present. I even connected with the Mayor of Alcester and will be following up to share details about the Arden Farm Wildlife Network.”