Addington Fund Launches New Entrant Scheme
On Back British Farming day (10th September), Addington Fund has launched a brand new package of support for new entrants into farming at the Westmorland County Show.
The New Entrant Grant Scheme supports individuals who are entering or have entered farming within the past two years — whether renting land, securing a new tenancy, or starting a fresh farming venture.
The Trustees of Addington Fund recognise the challenges that new entrants face and have committed an initial £100,000 to their new grant scheme to 18-40 year olds to enable them to have the best start in their farming career.
In addition to this financial support, the Trustees of Addington Fund are delighted to announce the purchase of a small hill farm near Kendal, Cumbria as its flagship starter farm for new entrants.
Whins Farm – new tenancy opportunity in Cumbria
Addington became aware of the existence of the farm when they were left a gift of money in the Will of the late Mary Blades. Mary stated in her Will that she wished her farm to be sold to a “keen and enthusiastic young farmer” and Addington stepped in when no suitable buyer could be found.
Whins Farm is currently requiring complete refurbishment and is being renovated by the charity to create a farm which will be let to a new entrant as a stepping stone into the industry.
Sue English, Fund Director, said “We feel very privileged that we can keep Whins Farm in farming and provide a first step for a young farming family. The charity had helped Mary and Joe during the Foot and Mouth crisis and we were very touched to be listed as a beneficiary in Mary’s Will.
“When no local, new entrant could be found as a buyer, Addington were able to put in an offer and buy our first farm. We’ve been supported by the local community, and we are going to ensure that this farm remains part of that community”
Simon Mountjoy, new Addington Fund Chair of Trustees added, “This is a big and exciting investment for any charity, but we see the problems that young people face getting into farming and this is our first small step to help. I am delighted that one of my first projects as Chairman of Trustees is going to have such a lasting impact.
“We know that a farm isn’t just the buildings, it’s the history and the role that it plays in a community. We see ourselves as stewards of this little hill farm and are determined to keep Mary’s wishes and its history going for another hundred years.
“This will be more than a landlord-tenant relationship and we will support our new tenants to give them the best start in farming.”
Addington Fund will be fundraising to help complete the works and you can find out how you can support Whins Farm and give a young farming family a new beginning.
The charity hopes that the farm will be completed in late 2026. Details of the tenancy and application process will be available next year.
New Entrant Grant Scheme
Addington Fund is committing £100,000 to provide small grants for new entrants into farming, with a focus on healthy livestock, healthy soil and healthy farms.
The scheme is designed to help new farmers access essential items that promote positive animal welfare and sustainable farming practices. The New Entrant Grant Scheme has been established in honour of the late Peter Jinman OBE MRCVS. Peter was Chair of Trustees at Addington Fund from 2011 until 2023 and this scheme reflects Peter’s lifelong commitment to the farming community.
Grants will focus on initiatives that deliver real benefit to a new farming business, including healthy livestock management, sustainable soil care, helping to encourage exceptional projects and innovative ideas
Up to £3,000 is available for individuals aged 18 to 40, in England and Wales, who have started farming in the last 2 years, or are about to start.
Addington Fund will consider applications for skills and equipment that will act as a cornerstone to a new farm business and the grants may be used alongside the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund.