The National Farmers' Union of Scotland (NFUS) has signed a partnership agreement with the Scottish Association of Young Farmers Club (SAYFC).

The aim of the partnership is to enhance joint working between the two organisations on issues affecting Scottish agriculture in the joint interests of their members.

NFUS chief executive, John Davidson, and SAYFC chief executive, Penny Montgomery, signed the agreement today (Thursday, June 20) during day one of the Royal Highland Show.

Davidson said: “NFU Scotland represents more than 9,000 farmers and crofters across the country. We have a powerful influencing voice with key decision makers across the sector and in Holyrood and Westminster. 

"While we have a very active Next Generation Committee and representation on our board, we are keen to strengthen our voice when it comes to protecting, enhancing and securing a strong, sustainable and profitable future for Scottish agriculture from those who will be the next custodians farming rural Scotland.

Montgomery, of SAYFC, said: “I am delighted to sign this agreement with NFUS on behalf of SAYFC. We are excited to be bringing our experience, knowledge, ideas and understanding of the sector to the partnership. 

"Our collaboration and potential outputs will benefit members of each organisation alike and help raise the profile of Scotland’s incredible next generation farmers and crofters.”

NFUS and SAYFC Partnership

The partnership commitments for each organisation are listed in the agreement.

NFUS will:

Offer free membership to SAYFC members whose membership is valid;
Offer two invitee positions on the Next Generation Committee to SAYFC representatives, specifically agri & rural affairs committee chair and vice chair;
Extend an invitation to SAYFC for Next Generation events;
Extend an invitation to two SAYFC members to attend NFUS board meetings twice a year where a specific agenda item will provide for discussion on work and issues facing young people;
Provide financial support to SAYFC;
Provide editorial space in the Scottish Farming Leader magazine to SAYFC.

SAYFC has said it will offer two invitee positions on the agri & rural affairs committee to NFUS Next Generation members and extend invitation to NFUS Next Generation members to attend agri & rural affairs events throughout the year.

It will also extend an invitation to NFUS Next Generation members to attend the Agri & Rural Affairs Conference (two complimentary places) and invite two NFUS Next Generation members to attend the annual Five Star Awards Dinner.

As well as this, SAYFC will consult with NFUS with regards to identifying topical issues whereby specific feedback would be beneficial, and will invite NFUS Next Generation to be actively involved in third party and stakeholder discussions to deliver a unified voice of young people in rural Scotland.

Lastly, SAYFC has pledged to support NFUS through actively promoting the benefits of NFUS membership to SAYFC members and share NFUS communications.