BACKGROUND
Wendy and Doug Collis are experienced farmers nearing retirement. Their core business focuses on sheep farming and forage production, including hay, haylage, and straw. Doug also undertakes contracting work for neighbouring farms. In addition to their primary operations, they have diversified into holiday lets and are exploring new ventures to secure the farm’s future.
The Collis family faced three key challenges:
- Technology Barriers: Wendy, who is partially sighted, struggled with basic digital tools, making compliance and planning difficult.
- Future Planning: They wanted to explore diversification opportunities, such as installing a temporary marquee for event hire, but lacked clarity on regulations and feasibility.
- SFI compliance: They required guidance to ensure they were keeping the correct records for their SFI agreement.
WORKING WITH ND+
Through the Business Boost program delivered by Farm Support Services at ND+, Wendy and Doug received:
- Digital Skills Training: Guidance on navigating a laptop and using essential tools for record-keeping. “I definitely feel more empowered to try to master technology.”
- SFI Scheme Advice: Practical support on compliance with Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) requirements. “I have been given some tools for helping to comply with SFI.”
- Diversification Guidance: Insights into potential new ventures and how to plan for them effectively. “Really helpful regarding technology and current SFI schemes and future diversification”
With advice from ND+, they changed the agreement by email from light hedge trimming to cutting back properly each year. The result was a small financial reduction which was easy but slow, and have now received their fourth payment.
The outcome has been financially worthwhile and they continue to manage the land as before.
Impact
The support had a transformative effect:
- Wendy feels empowered and confident in using technology.
- The couple now has tools and knowledge to comply with SFI and manage farm records efficiently.
- They gained strategic clarity on diversification options, helping them plan for a sustainable future.
“Bryony was brilliant—she understood what was causing problems and helped overcome many issues (including the mouse!). She has the patience of a saint and was extremely knowledgeable on every subject—really outstanding.”
Wendy & Doug Collis
DON’T STOP HERE
If you want to know more about other local businesses who’ve worked with our advisors – check out the rest of our case studies.
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