YFC training launched to counter £40.5m cost of rural crime

Young farmers are to receive training to help crack down on rural crime, which costs the UK farming industry an average of £40.5m each year.

Following a successful pilot scheme, the NFYFC training course, in partnership with the Police Crime Prevention Academy and NFU Mutual, will be available to each of the 577 Young Farmers’ Clubs across England and Wales, targeting the 22,000 YFC members who live in rural areas.

Farms are often targets of rural crime due to their remote locations, and the new training comes at a time when increased insurance premiums and a tough economic climate mean the cost of crime is being felt more keenly. 

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Amanda Mulholland, learning and development manager for the Police Crime Prevention Academy said: “Working with NFYFC was a great opportunity to provide access to the course to a significant number of young people whose futures in farming and rural communities across the UK could so easily be adversely affected if their family, friends and neighbours become victims of crime.” 

A pilot of the new training course took place in March with members of Penrith YFC.

Cumbria county chairman Will Longmire said: “We’re delighted it has been turned into a resource that can now be used by all YFCs across England and Wales.  

“Young Farmers can safeguard their future livelihoods by being aware of simple steps to help prevent crime and by making practical suggestions to the farms of neighbours and friends.

“It also means YFCs can contribute to the overall safety of their neighbours and local communities.” 

The training will be available from 24 April.