Farmers' Training Focuses On Health And Safety
15/02/05

Dozens of farmers across North Northumberland have signed up for a new series of training courses focusing on health and safety issues and new ways of working.

The North Northumberland Agricultural Training Association (NNATA) was awarded funding from Defra's Vocational Training Scheme (VTS) to run the courses, which cover a range of legislative requirements and other skills.

126 farmers and farm workers have signed up for courses, which include forklift training, chainsaw-crosscutting and maintenance, all terrain vehicle training and others covering the safe use of pesticides and spraying.

Ann Lauder, training officer for the NNATA, said:

"The association was set up more than 30 years ago to help local farmers obtain training at local venues to help ensure they have the skills they need to run their businesses successfully.

"The changes in agriculture over the years now demand that farming enterprises address health and safety issues and look at new ways of working.

"The funding received through Defra's Vocational Training Scheme has been invaluable. These courses help reduce health and safety risks and give farming enterprises the opportunity to consider areas in which to diversify and improve productivity. While being a legislative requirement, the courses also offer a first step to access more advanced training helping ensure a skilled and flexible workforce."

Martin Price, an adviser at Defra's Rural Development Service in the North East, said:

"VTS grants are available to both individuals and organisations to help cover the costs of a wide range of training from dry stone walling to IT skills.

"It's essential farmers and others in rural areas can access training at local venues, not only to meet legislative requirements but also to upgrade and enhance their skills to ensure the future viability of their businesses."