TO celebrate National Young Farmers Week (October 7 until October 11), the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs (NFYFC) has released some early results of its membership survey. 

The survey highlights a range of benefits of young farmers, and 93% of respondents say that participating in Young Farmers' Clubs (YFC) activities gives them a greater sense of health and wellbeing. 

'YFC is for everyone' is the theme for National Young Farmers' Week. The survey results so far reveal that 96% of members who responded to the survey feel welcomed and included when taking part in YFC activities with 98% saying they feel safe.

According to the early results, 97% said they would reccommend YFC membership, and 95% said they valued being a YFC member. 

NFYFC launched its 'YFC is for Everyone' initiative at its council meeting in February this year, which focuses on championing wellbeing, respect and inclusion in YFC.

During the National Young Farmers' Week, the NFYFC will feature stories from YFC members, including case study about Curly’s Farm YFC on the Isle of Sheppey in Kent. 

“After more than 100 years of Young Farmers’ Clubs, it’s amazing to see how loved and relevant the organisation remains to thousands of people," said NFYFC chair of council, drew Bailey. 

“This National Young Farmers’ Week we are sharing the message that YFC is for Everyone – regardless of your background. Our early survey results highlight how welcoming and supportive YFC is perceived to be.

“I didn’t grow up in a farming family and I’m a member of the LGBTQ+ community. I have enjoyed many years in YFC, made friends for life, felt included and accepted, and even been inspired to become a farmer! I’d encourage everyone to find their local YFC and get involved.”  

Other results included: 

  • 86% of respondents to the question said they had developed practical skills
  • 95% of respondents to the question said they had developed new friendships
  • 85% of respondents to the question said they have a sense of belonging in their community
  • 78% of respondents to the question said they believed they had improved their career prospects
  • 89% of respondents to the question said their confidence to present themselves in public has increased

NFYFC President John Lee OBE DL added: "National Young Farmers' Week is a week-long celebration for all Young Farmers’ Clubs to shout about their local activities and invite more people to join. 

"You don't have to be from a farming background to be involved, just passionate about the countryside, keen to make new friends and eager to develop new skills.  

"YFC is for everyone and being part of your local club opens up lots of new opportunities. Being part of YFC has had a lasting impact on my life. The skills I gained and the friendships I formed have stayed with me to this day."

You do not have to be a farmer to join a club, but the NFYFC said 70% of members said they were planning to work in farming and/or the allied rural industries in the next five years, despite the challenges to entry.

Agrii UK is supporting National Young Farmers’ Week this year. 

Robin Lawrence, Head of HR, Agrii UK, said: “At Agrii, we’re proud to support National Young Farmers’ Week because we know the crucial role Young Farmers’ Clubs play in shaping the future of our industry. These clubs not only provide a platform for young people to develop invaluable skills and build lasting networks, but they also nurture the next generation of farming leaders who will drive our industry forward.

“By partnering with NFYFC, we see firsthand how these clubs foster a strong sense of community, wellbeing, and professional growth—benefits that extend far beyond the individual members. As a corporate partner, the passion and ambition we witness from YFC members is inspiring, and it motivates us to continue supporting initiatives that cultivate both personal and industry-wide success.”