In the heart of rural Wales, one FUW member is proving that farming and fostering can go hand in hand. A dedicated social worker, who is also a farmer, is working to support rural communities through fostering. Oliver (Ollie) Roberts farms a mixed sheep and cattle farm in North Pembrokeshire while working part time for the National Fostering Agency (NFA Wales).
Ollie says: “The combination of social work in fostering and farming gives me a unique insight into the challenges and strengths of farming families and I firmly believe that farmers are ideally placed to provide loving, stable homes for children in need.
“I’m lucky in NFA in that I have a line manager who is both reasonably local to me, is also from a farming background and understands the demands of farming but also the strengths farming families have. We at NFA Wales are trying to encourage more farming families across Wales to consider fostering, they would receive regular support and a generous weekly financial allowance to help them on their journey.”
Ollie believes that while farmers have a deep connection to the land and a strong commitment to social issues, NFA also recognise that farmers have a natural ability to nurture and provide care, not only for their animals and land but also for children who need stability, routine, and support and the wider community.
Why farmers make great foster carers
Ollie believes that farming life is built on values of hard work, patience, and resilience - qualities that are also essential for fostering. A farm provides a unique environment where children can thrive, surrounded by fresh air, open spaces, and meaningful daily routines. The structure of farm life, from feeding animals in the morning to harvesting crops in the evening, offers children a sense of stability and purpose, which can be incredibly beneficial, especially for those who have experienced upheaval in their early lives.
Additionally, farms are naturally therapeutic places. The chance to care for animals, help with daily tasks, and be part of a close-knit rural community can be life-changing for a foster child. Many children in care struggle with confidence and self-esteem, but the responsibility and routine of farm life can help them build trust, learn new skills, and develop a sense of belonging.
Support for farming families
One of the key messages from these fostering advocates is that farmers who decide to foster won’t be doing it alone. The National Fostering Agency provides ongoing support, training, and financial assistance to ensure that foster carers feel confident and equipped for the role.
Ollie points out that NFA offers support and advice to overcome barriers such as health and safety: “Where we would help you think about mitigations for more dangerous areas that neither farmer nor NFA would want children in. Normally these mitigations are simple measures such as making certain areas out of bounds, fencing off slurry lagoons and keeping certain doors securely shut and/or locked.”
Both he and NFA management would like to reassure the rural community that they do have foster carers from all walks of life and welcome applications from all.
A call to action for farming families
We believe that fostering is a natural extension of farming life. Just as farmers care for their livestock and land, they can also provide a nurturing home for children who need love, stability, and encouragement. We are calling on farming families across Wales to consider whether they could offer a safe and supportive environment for a child in need.
If you’re a farmer - or know a family member who might be interested in fostering, now is the perfect time to explore the opportunity. With financial support, professional guidance, and the chance to make a real difference in a child's life, fostering could be one of the most rewarding decisions a farming family could make.
For more information on fostering with the National Fostering Agency, visit their website - www.nfa.co.uk/national-fostering-agency/office/wales/ or reach out to a local representative. Farming and fostering - two worlds that, together, can change lives.
Oliver Roberts, NFA Wales - Tel: 07587 100784 or email:
At this year’s Royal Welsh Show, John Owen was recognised for his outstanding contribution to Welsh farming, winning the Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) External award for services to agriculture.
John has been a pivotal figure in the advancement of agricultural practices across Wales, with his deep understanding of the sector instrumental in shaping and disseminating best farming practices, benefiting countless farmers within the Welsh agricultural industry.
John's agricultural journey began at Glynllifon Agricultural College, before completing a National Diploma in Agriculture at the Welsh Agricultural College. A Phillip Henman Trust travel Scholarship saw him head off to New Zealand and Australia, before returning to Wales to spend a year contract milking before being appointed by Bangor University to manage two group breeding projects with pedigree Welsh Black and Llyn Sheep breeders.
His long and distinguished tenure at Gelli Aur college farm commenced in 1993, where he took on the role of Farm Manager. During this time, he also served as the grass value project officer, assessing 12 dairy farms across Wales. His commitment to innovation led him to undertake a Nuffield scholarship in 2004, studying development farms in New Zealand.
Throughout his time at Gelli Aur, he was a driving force behind the establishment of the Farm Diversification and Technology Centre. He successfully trialled the Robotic Milking Unit, transforming Gelli Aur into a key development farm for both the Dairy Development Centre and Hybu Cig Cymru. His expert advice on grassland management has consistently empowered farmers to enhance their competitiveness in the market.
John played a leading role in the groundbreaking Prosiect Slyri Project. This innovative initiative focuses on reducing farm waste and mitigating the agricultural industry's environmental impact through the development of a dewatering and purification system for slurry management on farms. He was also involved in the Tywydd Tywi Weather project, which saw the installation of six weather stations monitoring crucial data like soil temperature, leaf moisture, and soil moisture. This data, accessible via a mobile phone app, enables farmers to make informed decisions regarding nutrient management and pesticide application.
He retired as College Farm manager for Coleg Sir Gar in 2023, and has gone on to work as a Lead Consultant on Agriculture and Environment for LAFAN Consultancy Group, with a remit to build capacity in South Wales with agriculture and rural projects.
A distinguished Treharne Nuffield Scholar, John Owen is a Fellow of the Royal Agricultural Societies, and is a Council member and Trustee of the Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers. In 2023 he won the Farmers’ Union of Wales – United Counties Agriculture and Hunters Society Award for services to agriculture in Carmarthenshire.
Presenting the award to John Owen at the FUW President Reception at the Royal Welsh Show, FUW President, Ian Rickman said: "John Owen's dedication to Welsh agriculture is truly inspiring. His pioneering work at Gelli Aur and his commitment to sustainable farming practices have left an indelible mark on our industry.
"This award is a fitting recognition of his lifelong efforts and the immense benefit he has brought to farmers across Wales."
Ann Davies MP, FUW Carmarthenshire County Chair added: "John's profound impact on farming practices within Carmarthenshire cannot be overstated.
"His tireless work at Gelli Aur has directly empowered farmers locally and nationally, providing them with the knowledge and tools to thrive. He is a true champion of Carmarthenshire agriculture, and we are incredibly proud to see him receive this well-deserved honour."
Renowned Welsh TV presenter and dedicated farming advocate, Alun Edwards, more widely known as Alun Elidyr, has been presented with the Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) Bob Davies Memorial Award at this year’s Royal Welsh Show.
The award, in memory of Farmers Weekly Wales correspondent Bob Davies, is offered to an individual or group that has raised the public profile of Welsh farming.
Alun Elidyr returned to his family farm, Cae Coch in Rhydymain, Meirionnydd, in 1996 following the sudden passing of his father. The decision followed a successful acting career that saw him feature in numerous drama series, including Coleg, Yr Heliwr, Rownd a Rownd, Tipyn o Stad, and Lleifior.
In January 2005, Alun was tempted back in front of the cameras in a relaunched series of Ffermio, S4C’s weekly farming and countryside magazine series. He has since appeared in hundreds of episodes, focusing on all kinds of changes and challenges facing Welsh farming and rural communities; from bovine TB to Brexit, farm safety, mental health challenges and an array of agricultural shows and events.
As well as Ffermio, Alun has presented S4C’s Royal Welsh coverage for the past decade as the infectious, enthusiastic commentator on the shearing shed competitions.
In 2022 he also gained a following across the UK after an appearance on BBC’s Countryfile series, showing ways his farm had cut light pollution, alongside his passion around his focus on food production and conservation.
Beyond his personal farming endeavors and television work, Alun has been an influential figure within the FUW. He has long been involved in his local branch in Meirionnydd, rising through the ranks to serve as both local and County Chairman. His dedication extended to the national level, where he spent several years on the FUW's former Finance and Organisation committee and as Chairman of the FUW's Education and Training committee. In 2018 he was recognised for his tremendous dedication to the Welsh farming industry with the FUW’s Internal Award for Services to Agriculture.
Alun has also been a strong advocate for mental health awareness and farm safety. He has previously opened up about his own experiences of suffering with severe depression and panic attacks, and since 2019 has served as an Ambassador for the Wales Farm Safety Partnership, highlighting health and safety challenges on Welsh farms.
Presenting Alun Elidyr with the award at the FUW President Reception during the Royal Welsh Show, FUW President, Ian Rickman said: "Through his work on Ffermio, Alun has masterfully brought the triumphs and tribulations of Welsh agriculture and rural life into living rooms across Wales, and further afield.
"Alun's reputation as a likeable, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic presenter is well-earned. This is undoubtedly bolstered by his own farming experience at Cae Coch and his passionate advocacy for mental health and farm safety - two vital, yet often overlooked, issues within the agricultural sector.
"As Alun celebrates twenty years of presenting this flagship show, there's no more fitting way to mark this incredible milestone than with this well-deserved award."
At this year’s Royal Welsh Show, Glyn Roberts, former President of the Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW), was honoured with the prestigious FUW Internal Award, recognising his tremendous services to Welsh agriculture.
Glyn Roberts was first elected President of the Farmers’ Union of Wales in 2015, before being unanimously re-elected in 2020 and serving until 2023.
Prior to his election as President, Glyn served in countless roles within the Farmers’ Union of Wales, as FUW Caernarfonshire Chairman between 1999 and 2002, and as a member of the FUW’s Finance and Organisation Committee between 2003 and 2004. Following his time as President, he was appointed as a FUW Life Member.
Beyond his tireless work with the FUW, Glyn has also served in many prominent positions nationally and within his local community. He previously served as a non-executive director on the board of Hybu Cig Cymru by Welsh Assembly Government appointment, and in 2019 he was honoured by the Gorsedd of Bards at the National Eisteddfod in Dyffryn Conwy.
A first-generation sheep and beef farmer, Glyn’s agriculture journey began in 1976, completing a full-time course at Glynllifon Agricultural College. He went on to work as a shepherd at Dylasau Uchaf, Padog, before successfully submitting an application in 1977 for the tenancy of a 100-acre upland farm, Ynys Wen, Ysbyty Ifan
In 1983 he secured the tenancy of Dylasau Uchaf, a 350-acre farm owned by the National Trust, where he continues to farm with his wife Eleri. They have raised five children on the farm, with his daughter, Beca, now a partner in the farming business.
Serving as FUW President between 2015 and 2023, his Presidency coincided with several major challenges for the agricultural sector in Wales and the UK. These included the Brexit referendum, and the subsequent negotiations on the UK’s departure from the European Union, and the lengthy discussions on Welsh agricultural framework and funding that followed. His Presidency also coincided with the unprecedented pressures of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Presenting Glyn Roberts with the award at the FUW President Reception at the Royal Welsh Show, his successor, Ian Rickman said: "Glyn Roberts is a tireless champion for the interests of Welsh agriculture, and has shown unwavering commitment towards the Farmers’ Union of Wales all throughout his life.
"As his Deputy President, I was fortunate enough to see first hand his ability and passion in navigating complex challenges; tirelessly working to secure a prosperous future for farmers across Wales.
"Throughout his Presidency, Glyn faced monumental challenges - from Brexit and the fall-out that followed to the unprecedented uncertainties of the Covid pandemic. However, Glyn’s leadership, good humour and unwavering dedication to Wales’ rural communities shone throughout, securing key wins for Welsh farmers throughout his Presidency. He is undoubtedly a deserving winner of this award. Llongyfarchiadau, Glyn.”
At the Royal Welsh Show on Tuesday, the Farmers' Union of Wales (FUW) will launch its latest report, 'A Mandate for Future Farmers'. The comprehensive document highlights the challenges facing young and new entrant farmers in Wales and sets out nearly 40 specific recommendations for the Welsh Government, UK Government, and the wider farming community to ensure a sustainable future for Welsh agriculture.
The report stresses the key importance of attracting and retaining young talent in farming for numerous reasons, including safeguarding food security, sustaining vibrant rural economies and communities, and ensuring the continuity of rural and land-management skills. All vital for ensuring Wales’ land can provide and adapt for future Welsh communities needs in challenging times.
However, the significant barriers preventing young people from entering and thriving in farming are highlighted in the report. Particular emphasis is placed on the ageing workforce, with the median age of the 'key decision maker' farmer in Wales being 61, and only 3% of 'head of holding' farmers under the age of 35.
Prohibitive land prices and access to finance are also identified as key challenges, with low incomes and inconsistent cash flow making it difficult for new and young entrants to secure funding for land purchase, or to prove financial security for rental opportunities and covering start-up costs. The report also cites growing competition for land from natural capital/carbon investors, forestry, lifestyle buyers, charities, other farmers, government bodies, and renewable energy developers.
Limited and insecure tenancies are another significant hurdle. The average length of term on new Farm Business Tenancies (FBTs) remains just over three years, with 80% of all new farm tenancy agreements let for five years or less, hindering long-term investment. The sale of County Council farms has also reduced available land, with the area of council land in Wales falling by 25% (13,000 hectares) in the last decade.
The report also identifies a significant lack of succession planning and/or willingness within the industry as a whole, with a recent report claiming 21% of farmers surveyed stated they did not intend to retire.
The FUW's 'Mandate for Future Farmers' proposes a multi-faceted approach to support the next generation of farmers, with specific asks for the Welsh and UK governments, and wider farming community.
For the Welsh Government, the FUW outlined calls for an option for quarterly Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) payments, prioritising new entrants and young farmers. It also advocates for a loan or guarantor option via the Development Bank of Wales to ease initial financial burdens, alongside higher capital cost contributions and upfront payments for new entrants and young farmers.
The report further advocates for reinstating the Agri Academy Rural Leadership Programme, supporting 'young' networking groups, implementing FUW's policy recommendations on SFS accessibility, Bovine TB eradication, and public procurement of Welsh produce. It also aims to enable joint applications from landlords and tenants within the SFS, encourage new and young entrants to invest in themselves, promote diverse career options in Welsh farming, support agricultural colleges, encourage efficiency savings through new technologies and reduced bureaucracy, and continue promoting Welsh food and drink products.
The document calls on the UK Government to reconsider its controversial changes to Agricultural Property Relief (APR), advocating that farming/agricultural assets should not be taxed when passed between farming generations, but rather at the point of sale if a generation decides to sell. It also urges the implementation of recommendations from the 2022 Rock Review (England's Tenancy Working Group) to encourage longer FBTs with rents reflecting productivity and return, not just land value.
The report also encourages existing farmers and landowners to provide tenancies as a key route into land access, offering longer-term and secure agreements, as well as 'trial' years. For Welsh farmers concerned about the next generation, it also suggests considering share farming, offering contract farming opportunities, joint ventures, or mentoring. Proactive succession planning is also identified as vital, utilising facilitators or Farming Connect support for business and legal advice. The Union also calls for helping local new and young farmers by lending machinery or equipment, and leasing livestock, and continuing to support Wales' Young Farmers' Clubs.
Commenting ahead of the launch of the report, Teleri Fielden, FUW Policy Officer said: "The future of Welsh agriculture, and indeed our ability to respond to wider challenges as a nation, hinges on our ability to support and empower the next generation.
"A Mandate for Future Farmers is a clear call to action for governments and the industry. We must remove the barriers, create genuine opportunities, and invest in the talent that will ensure our family farms continue to thrive for decades to come, providing food, managing biodiverse and climate resilient farms, and sustaining our rural communities."
Ian Rickman, FUW President added: "This report is more than just a list of recommendations; it's a blueprint for a resilient and thriving future for Welsh farming, ensuring that the heart of our rural communities continues to beat strong for generations to come."
The report will be launched at the FUW Pavilion at the Royal Welsh Show on Tuesday 22nd July at 11:15. FUW Policy Officer and new entrant, Teleri Fielden, will be presenting the report, joined by three members of the FUW's Younger Voice for Farming Committee who will share their firsthand experiences. Representatives from Wales YFC and Farming Connect will also provide their own insight and support available to new entrants and young farmers. A buffet and drinks reception on the balcony will follow the launch.
