Joining the dots: strengthening the pipeline for food production

The event aimed to encourage interaction and collaboration among stakeholders to enhance career provision and raise awareness of the industry's diverse opportunities.

The Industry Careers Action Plan (ICAP) group, formed in October 2022, brings together key stakeholders to promote careers in agriculture and horticulture. ICAP members, including the AHDB, Chartered Institute of Horticulture, Country Trust, Fresh Produce Consortium, LANTRA, LEAF, NFU, NFYFC, and Tenant Farmers Association, play diverse roles in supporting the industry's workforce.

TIAH will establish an Asset Hub on its website on behalf of the ICAP group in response to the call for a centralised repository of careers information. The hub will compile and regularly update a comprehensive collection of resources for careers professionals, parents and guardians, and careers seekers. It will feature content including: 

• Key organisations and contacts: The hub will provide details of key organisations such as AHDB, Chartered Institute of Horticulture, Country Trust, Fresh Produce Consortium, LANTRA, LEAF, NFU, NFYFC and Tenant Farmers Association. These contacts are crucial for networking, advice and support
• Signposting to curated resources: Users will be signposted to resources and materials from Countryside Classroom, National Citizens Service, Careers and Enterprise Company, National Fruit Show, and Yorkshire Agricultural Society, among others 
• Opportunities and guidance: The hub will highlight opportunities, including work experience guidance, from Dyson, JCB, and other career experiences
• Bursary Information: Information on bursaries, including those offered by the Kent Agricultural Society, will be available to support educational and professional development

The Asset Hub will be more than just a collection of resources; it's a commitment to ongoing collaboration and support in our industry. It addresses the urgent need for a skilled workforce in agriculture and horticulture, helping to alleviate labour shortages and secure the future of our vital industry.

Encouraging ongoing collaboration

The roundtable concluded with a strong consensus on the importance of collaboration and expanding career promotion efforts; we can ensure thriving and sustainable agriculture and horticulture industries for generations to come. 

TIAH welcomes industry partners to join the ongoing efforts to strengthen the pipeline for food production. If you're interested in contributing to this initiative, please contact Careers Manager Ruthie Peterson.