Scottish Land Matching Service reaches enquiry milestone

The Scottish Land Matching Service (SLMS) has received its 1000th enquiry.

Launched by Scottish Government in 2019, the independent, free-to-use service helps facilitate restructuring within the sector by matching those looking to gain a foothold in farming and crofting with existing businesses wishing to cut down their commitment or looking to leave.

SLMS, which operates across the whole of Scotland, is run by independent advisors, Ian Davidson OBE, and Allan Young. It is hosted by NFU Scotland from its Head Office.

Set against the backdrop of agricultural tenancy debate as part of the Land Reform (Scotland) Bill, which is at Stage 1 of the parliamentary process, SLMS is providing an increasingly vital service in providing opportunities for new entrants while supporting those at the other end of their agricultural careers.

SLMS’ Ian Davidson said:

“New entrants to farming and crofting continue to find it increasingly difficult to access land and capital. With the average age of farmers and crofters in Scotland continuing to rise that is not a healthy position for the long-term sustainability of the industry.

“As we enter a period of change with challenges around future support arrangements, tackling climate change and increasing biodiversity high on the agenda, businesses should be taking stock and planning for the future. The service aims to allow parties to find the right arrangement for their situation and can include contract farming; joint ventures, share farming and tenancies.

“A number of arrangements are now up and running and several more are in the pipeline.

“And the fact that enquiries continue to increase shows how important the service will   continue to be.  SLMS encourages people to think ahead, particularly where they may be able to offer an opportunity for a joint venture with someone looking to progress and develop within the industry.

Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands Mairi Gougeon was delighted with the engagement for SLMS. She said:

“I’d like to thank everyone involved in supporting this vital service. Initial engagement is only the first step and we need to do all we can to turn these enquiries into tangible action for farmers and crofters. It is essential that we continue to provide routes into farming and crofting for the next generation of rural workers and the SLMS is helping with this.

“I would encourage anyone who wishes to move out of farming but wishes to see it continue on their land to make use of this excellent service.”

SLMS advisors, Ian Davidson and Allan Young, will be at the Black Isle Show this Thursday (1 August) to answer all your Land Matching queries and questions.

You can find more information about the service at its website: Scottish Land Matching Service | Opportunities in Scottish Farming (slms.scot)