In order to help the industry prepare for the challenges ahead, Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales (HCC) hosted a joint webinar with The Farming Community Network and LHP Accountants to discuss what steps farmers can take now to prepare for the winter ahead.
Joining the webinar were The Farming Community Network Cymru, Wales Manager, Linda Jones; LHP Accountants, William Howell senior agricultural accountant within the Agriculture team and HCC’s Industry Development Executive James Ruggeri.
A number one take-away from James’s presentation was to plan ahead now - there are a number of decisions about planting forage crops and grazing plans that need doing now; to ensure that ewes are in the right condition at tupping, as trying to make up body condition in winter months can be expensive and to use the help that's out there such as support provided by Farming Connect among others.
James Ruggeri said: “ We can't change the weather but the more planning and preparation you do in the lead up to winter the easier you will find it to deal with extreme conditions. Healthy livestock in good condition are best equipped to survive any winter.”
William Howell, Senior Accountant at LHP, said: “By implementing financial management strategies like budgeting, cash flow management, seeking expert advice, and utilising cloud accounting software, you can gain control of your farm's finances and navigate challenges with confidence.”
Key points highlighted during his presentation also included the importance of communicating with your accountant, bank manager and consultants to allow for pro-active problem solving.
Linda Jones, National Manager Wales at The Farming Community Network, said: “FCN Cymru’s support services include proactive work to support farmers through change and in building resilience. We believe that farm businesses thrive when their people thrive – and an important part of thriving is to build and maintain physical and mental resilience.”
In her presentation Linda covered topics such as wellbeing in general, how to look after yourself, as well as raising awareness around cancer signs and symptoms as part of FCN’s Rural Communities Cancer Project working with Macmillan Cancer Support to try and address health inequalities in farming and rural communities.
Speaking after the event, HCC Board member Emlyn Roberts who chaired the webinar, said: “We want to see a productive and resilient farming industry and HCC alongside FCN and LHP Accountants discussed what practical steps can be taken to ensure we are well prepared for the coming winter season. I thank the speakers for their valuable contributions and hope that the information shared will be of help to the wider industry.”
The webinar is available to watch in HCC’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R7-vqNiMGhI&t=1297s
