A New Kind of Farming For A New Generation
For decades, farming in the UK has faced growing challenges — ageing farmers, squeezed incomes, rising costs, and a food system dominated by a handful of powerful retailers. But in the midst of all this, something surprising is happening: a new generation is beginning to see farming not as a relic of the past, but as part of a better future.
Although only about 5% of UK farmers are under 35, more and more young people are expressing an interest in agriculture. Enrollments at agricultural colleges are rising, and many Gen Z-ers are exploring how they might farm in ways that are more connected to the environment, their communities, and their own values.
These aspiring farmers aren’t just looking to step into traditional roles. They’re seeking new models — ones that restore the soil, treat animals ethically, connect directly with consumers, and make small-scale farming financially viable.
Even when young people are ready to commit to a different way of farming, they often lack the capital, the training, or the community infrastructure to succeed. Many give up before they’ve even started.
Why Aren’t More Young Farmers on the Land?
One of the biggest obstacles is access. Land is expensive, and inherited farms often come with financial burdens. With the looming introduction of inheritance taxes and narrow margins in conventional farming, many young people are walking away from family farms, believing they can’t make it work — not for themselves, and certainly not for the next generation.
Even when young people are ready to commit to a different way of farming, they often lack the capital, the training, or the community infrastructure to succeed. Many give up before they’ve even started.
But There Is Another Way
Across the country, a growing movement is helping new farmers get started. One of the most promising models is Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) — where local families subscribe to receive food directly from local growers. This system provides farmers with a stable income, reduces waste, and strengthens ties between producers and their communities.
Other grassroots initiatives — including land-sharing schemes, cooperative farms, and regenerative agriculture training — are also gaining ground. These models share a common goal: to make farming about more than just survival. They aim to support healthy food, sustainable practices, and thriving local economies.
According to organisations like the Landworkers’ Alliance and the Ecological Land Cooperative, demand for small-scale farming opportunities is outpacing the availability of affordable land — a clear sign that younger people are eager to farm, if only the conditions are right.
What We’re Doing — and How You Can Help
At Farmbank, we’re working to support this new generation of farmers. We want to raise funds to:
- Buy land to make available to new growers
- Support community food projects such as CSAs
- Provide mentorship, training and startup help for first-time farmers
- Build food systems that benefit farmers, consumers and the local economy