Young farmers have been dealt a financial blow with news the Scottish Government will no longer give membership body SAYFC financial support.
SAYFC – the Scottish Association of Young Farmers’ Clubs – says this will be the first time in nearly 70 years that the organisation has not received financial support from government.
The association says the loss of its annual grant of £66,000, which is administered by the government’s department for children and young people, will reduce its annual income by 13%.
Chief executive, Penny Montgomerie, said: “We are disappointed that the Scottish Government has taken this decision to no longer support SAYFC. The association offers a crucial network for many young people in rural Scotland as well as unique personal development opportunities. The association is currently growing from strength to strength with membership now higher than it has been since 1998.”
She said the lack of funding would directly impact the association’s 3,500 members, which are aged between 14 and 40 years old.
“Looking to the future we are optimistic that although there are tough financial times ahead over the coming months we will continue to focus on ensuring we can develop member services, and have a relevant organisation that youth in rural Scotland want to be part of,” added Ms Montgomerie.
When asked about the funding cut, a Scottish Government spokeswoman said: “A strong and wide-ranging portfolio of youth work organisations have been awarded funding from the £12million fund which is benefiting more than 100 organisations. All organisations who were unsuccessful in the application process have been offered support from Lloyds Foundation to consider alternative funding sources, including other relevant government funds
“We value the work of the Scottish Association of Young Farmers’ Clubs and are committed to helping to increase opportunities for young farmers. Ministers will be inviting SAYFC leaders to meet to discuss how the Scottish Government can help support their good work in light of the panel’s decision in relation to their application for youth work funding.”