It is often said that family farming is more than just a business - it’s a way of life and one that is deeply associated with values such as solidarity, continuity and commitment. In order to underpin rural vitality and encourage younger people into farming, it is important to address two key issues: firstly, to promote the timely and effective transfer of farm ownership and management responsibilities from one generation to the next (so-called succession); and secondly, to facilitate greater access to land for young people looking to enter farming for the first time.

Family farms come in all shapes and sizes and face many different challenges. However, from the small-scale, single plot operations to those at the highest end of the farm classification scale, all have one thing in common: the inevitable need that arises sooner or later to hand over the farm business, its assets and management responsibilities from one generation to the next. Ensuring that this process is undertaken in a timely and effective way is essential, as it has a direct impact on the long-term productivity and profitability of the farm, as well as on the social stability and wellbeing of the farming family.