Zoe Chinman, former Chairperson of the Small Farm Training Group, says joining a smallholding club or group will open up the world of home farming – plus you’ll have a lot of fun!

As we look forward to a new year, it’s a time to embrace new beginnings and forge meaningful connections. Looking back on my rewarding journey as the chairperson of the Small Farm Training Group (SFTG) in East Sussex, a role I recently concluded after three impactful years, I’m inspired to share with you the profound joys and benefits of being part of a vibrant smallholder community. Whether you’re already deep into the smallholder lifestyle or just have a budding interest in rural life, I wholeheartedly encourage you to consider joining or starting a smallholder’s group in your area.

Smallholder groups are invaluable, not just as associations, but as thriving communities offering immense support, learning opportunities, and a sense of camaraderie. During my tenure with SFTG, I experienced how these groups become essential lifelines, offering practical advice, training, a platform for selling produce, and sometimes even offering discounts and equipment hire. However, beyond these tangible benefits, they foster a profound sense of belonging and shared purpose among members. Our group, initiated in 1983, has flourished into a community of about 400 members, collectively owning around 3,000 acres.

We’ve maintained a modest £20 annual membership fee, which interestingly has remained unchanged since our inception, covering an entire family at the same address. This inclusivity and affordability has been the cornerstone of our philosophy: ‘Run by our members, for our members.’

Our diverse membership, encompassing both long-standing and newer members, has brought an incredible wealth of knowledge and skills, enriching the group immeasurably.

A FRIEND THROUGH CHALLENGING TIMES
I’ve observed how smallholder groups can adapt and flourish, even through challenging times like the Covid pandemic. We shifted from relying on external speakers to tapping into the rich reservoir of expertise within our own ranks. Members began leading workshops in their areas of specialty, ranging from intricate livestock care to various craft skills. This shift not only made our group more resilient but also deepened the connections between members, enhancing the collective knowledge and experience. Our annual events, such as the summer BBQ and the Harvest picnic, are more than just fun gatherings; they’re vital for networking and building relationships among members. And let’s not overlook the practical aspects – our lending libraries for books and tools have been invaluable resources for our community. These libraries not only provide access to essential information and equipment but also foster a culture of sharing and collaboration among our members. As I step down from my role, filled with gratitude and memories, I’m excited to see new leadership infuse fresh ideas and energy into our beloved group. I plan to focus my efforts on enhancing our tool library, a hidden gem within our organisation that has tremendous potential to benefit our members even further. Expanding this resource will ensure that our members have access to a wider range of tools, fostering an environment where learning and practical application go hand in hand.

A PASSION FOR LAND AND NATURE
Starting or joining a smallholder group can be an incredibly fulfilling journey. It’s an opportunity to learn, share, and grow alongside others who share a passion for the land and nature. You don’t need vast tracts of land to be part of this world – urban homesteads, spacious back gardens, or even a modest balcony with planters can be your starting point in this enriching journey. So, why not make this new year the time to connect with the land, with nature, and with a community of like-minded individuals? Whether it’s through SFTG or a group closer to your home, the world of smallholding is welcoming, enriching, and eagerly awaiting your participation. Here’s to a new year filled with new friendships, learning, and adventures in the wonderful world of smallholding.

This article extract was taken from the January 2024 edition of The Country Smallholder. To read the article in full, you can buy the issue here.

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