With skills and labour shortages in the sector still hitting farm businesses, the Institute for Agriculture and Horticulture (TIAH) is encouraging those effected to take advantage of the new group membership on offer.
As a direct response to industry feedback, TIAH developed the membership to help farm businesses get the staff and retain them for the future while developing their skills.
TIAH chief executive, Stephen Jacob, says skills and labour shortages are placing significant pressure on farm businesses.
“TIAH’s 2022 report found 63% of UK farm businesses reported difficulties in filling certain roles, with 39% of these roles sitting empty for over a month,” says Mr Jacob.
“To support long-term resilience and sustainability in agriculture and horticulture, we have to address these labour and skills gaps.”
He says that replacing a member of staff can cost the equivalent of more than a year’s salary because of the time spent recruiting and training new staff and the effect of the loss of skills and productivity.
Mr Jacob adds: “By using the online service to actively support and recognise lifelong learning, farm businesses will build a reputation for professionalism and innovation, making them more attractive as employers.”
Ms Christoffersson adds: “Our new offering helps farm businesses streamline team training with a manager’s view of online learning activity, allowing instant oversight of course completions and training needs.”
Linda Christoffersson, TIAH’s head of membership, says this will help farm businesses stand out as top employers.
The online service includes a document management feature, allowing farm businesses to upload and securely store critical documents—such as nutrient management plans, insurance policies, and training certificates—and set expiry reminders to alert them when renewals are due.
According to Ms Christoffersson, TIAH membership is already resonating with the next generation of talent, who increasingly value professional development.
She says: “Strong uptake of our student membership has shown that the next generation put a strong emphasis on structured learning and expect learning opportunities from their employers.
“Group membership enables farm businesses to meet these expectations, positioning them as preferred employers in a competitive market, helping them to retain staff and contributing to better overall farm performance in the long-term.”
For more information on TIAH’s group membership offer, visit https://tiah.org/en/group-membership.
