New employment programme helping young people overcome barriers to work begins on Rothbury Estate

The Farm to Future Trailblazer programme offers young people aged 18–24 who are not currently in education, employment or training the opportunity to gain practical experience, develop new skills and explore careers in the rural economy.

The first cohort of young people has now started the programme, which combines hands-on farm activities with personalised support and opportunities to experience different types of employment.

Participants will get involved in a range of activities, including livestock care, woodland management, conservation and general farm maintenance.

The programme will also help them connect with local employers and explore potential routes into training, volunteering and employment.

The initiative builds on the work of Solidarity Farm CIC, a social enterprise established in 2022 to support children and young people who struggle in conventional education and employment settings.

John Harrison, CIC founder and director, said: “We believe that everyone has something valuable to contribute, but not everyone thrives in a classroom or a conventional workplace.

“Farming offers something different. It’s practical, it’s outdoors and it gives young people a real sense of purpose and achievement.

“Through Farm to Future, we want to help young people discover their strengths, build confidence and see the opportunities available to them in farming, conservation and the wider rural economy.

“We’re delighted to welcome our first cohort of young people and look forward to supporting them as they take their next steps.”

The six-month programme is being developed in partnership with Groundwork North East.