In an industry where hard work, perseverance, and community spirit are the order of the day, few sections show the true essence of British agriculture than older farmers. This winter, a new national initiative, the Ploughing On campaign, is bringing a well-deserved focus on the wonderful men and women who have spent their lives farming and crofting throughout Scotland and beyond. Launched by RSABI, the charity that supports people in Scottish agriculture, it also aims to pay homage to the wisdom, service and dedication of our senior farmers and to remind them how highly they are regarded within the wider agricultural fraternity.
Honouring Experience in an Industry Built on Legacy
Agriculture has always been a generational pursuit. Many of today’s farms have been shaped by the same families for centuries, with knowledge, traditions, and best practices passed down through the years. But as modern farming evolves with technology, sustainability initiatives, and new government policy, it’s easy to overlook the essential role of those who have laid the groundwork for today’s progress. “Older farmers carry the living memory of agriculture,” says Carol McLaren, CEO of RSABI. “They’ve weathered the highs and lows, the droughts and floods, the market changes and political shifts, and they continue to offer wisdom that no textbook or training programme could replicate.” Through the Ploughing On campaign, RSABI aims to capture and celebrate those stories, the voices of people who have spent decades working the land, raising livestock, and building communities rooted in shared purpose.
Supporting the Senior Farming Community
The campaign arrives at an important time. Many older farmers are reporting increased anxiety about the future, particularly around the proposed Inheritance Tax changes expected in April 2026. For some, this uncertainty has led to feelings of worry, isolation, or even of being a “burden” to their families and businesses. Agriculture can be a lonely profession at any stage of life, but during the long, dark winter months, those living alone or coping with health challenges can be especially vulnerable. RSABI’s initiative seeks to address this, not only by celebrating older people’s contributions but also by encouraging stronger community connections. Simple gestures, such as a visit, a phone call, or even a friendly chat, can make an enormous difference. “A smile or a cup of tea shared with a neighbour can lift someone’s spirits more than you might realise,” McLaren explains.
Bridging the Generational Gap in Agriculture
At Agricultural Recruitment Specialists, we see every day how vital intergenerational knowledge is to the success of UK farming. The experience of senior farmers forms the backbone of the sector, and their mentorship continues to guide and inspire younger generations entering the field. Whether it’s teaching new entrants how to handle livestock safely, offering insight into soil management, or passing on the art of resilience through tough seasons, older farmers play a pivotal role in ensuring the continuity and sustainability of British agriculture. Campaigns like Ploughing On not only celebrate this heritage but also help foster a culture of respect and learning, one where innovation and experience go hand in hand.
Community, Connection, and Care
As part of the initiative, RSABI will be calling for volunteers across Scotland to help organise festive lunches for senior people, creating moments of warmth and community during the colder months. In the longer term, the charity hopes to establish a network of Plough On groups across the country to keep those connections alive year-round. A series of videos will also share stories from lifelong farmers who have dedicated decades to the land, highlighting their achievements and encouraging younger farmers to carry the torch forward. There’s even an opportunity for the public to nominate senior farmers for official RSABI certificates recognising their outstanding contribution to agriculture and crofting, a small but meaningful way to say thank you for a lifetime of dedication.
If you know an older farmer or crofter who deserves recognition, or if you’d like to volunteer your time to support RSABI’s campaign, visit www.rsabi.org.uk or email ploughon@rsabi.org.uk. RSABI’s free, confidential support service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year, by calling 0808 1234 555 or through a confidential webchat on their website.
Celebrating Those Who Keep the Fields Turning
The agricultural world thrives on shared experience, the wisdom of those who have walked the fields before us and the enthusiasm of those just starting out. By recognising and supporting older farmers, we not only preserve our rural heritage but also strengthen the foundation for the future of British farming. At Agricultural Recruitment Specialists, we celebrate the dedication, mentorship, and community spirit of our senior farming generation and the vital role they continue to play in guiding and inspiring the next.
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