THE CROFTER SCF is dedicated to campaigning for crofters and fighting for the future of crofting

DECEMBER 2020 Number 122 Extensive livestock systems under threat PLAND AND extensive livestock systems have Ubeen under attack from industry lobbyists. The Scottish farmers' union aim at securing payments for less favoured areas and the ewe-hogg scheme for their more-favoured members. The UK national beef association suggests a means to the demise of extensive native cattle via a penal regime forcing early slaughter. The paper published by NFUS, Less Favoured Areas: Delivering for Scotland, in the most part could have been written by the crofters’ representative, SCF. It has collected together all the facts and figures that amply illustrate how the disadvantaged and severely disadvantaged areas of Scotland contribute to food production, environmental health, landscape, thriving communities and so on. All good, except that when you get to near the end you find the ulterior motive: retention of the Less Favoured Support Scheme (LFASS) rather than moving to a more effective and equitable scheme.

© Martin Benson - Rodel, Isle of Harris ...Continued on page 3 Sheep sector most exposed to risk HEN THE news isn’t talking about uncompetitive in Europe and that would feed point. It seems crazy that we have to discuss Covid-19, it is talking about Brexit, so back through the supply chain to hit store lamb these things, but better to be prepared. Wit is worth summarising the position producers – ie us. The Internal Market Bill is not yet passed that SCF has been lobbying for on the major So either prices would fall, or some of the into law (at time of writing) and there has been issues. more marginal producers – crofters – would discussion on many aspects of it. But let’s At the time of writing, there is still no agreement stop keeping stock which, in turn, could make the concentrate on the implications for crofters. No- on a deal with the EU. Leaving the EU at the remaining businesses in the more remote areas one is denying the need for a common framework end of December without agreement on tariffs, – again, crofters – unviable. SAC reckon that the across the four nations of the UK. But it should also known as an “Australian” deal, will be a price of lamb would have to half to compensate be agreed by the four nations – not imposed by severe blow for the Scottish red meat industry. for tariffs and so maintain sales in the EU under a UK government which also functions as the Tariffs on lamb of 48% would make the product no deal. English government. A Scottish Government official has said “the Animal welfare standards could again be a sheep sector is the most exposed to risk.” And it is contentious issue. One of the arguments for INSIDE THIS ISSUE not just tariffs that we have to worry about. The UK Brexit was that it would lead to cheaper food would have to keep standards in line with the EU in supermarkets. The US, for one, will insist on • Crofting law reform in order to have access to their markets. Crofters agricultural products being part of any trade deal. are proud of our high welfare and environmental Say for example that one of the home nations • Scottish Land Court standards but their maintenance is not a given in wanted to allow battery eggs to be imported, proposals a post-EU world. then the bill insists that the other three nations • CAGS The Scottish Government is already dusting off must accept that product to be sold and cannot plans to introduce schemes to support the sheep discriminate against it. • Young crofters feature industry in the case of a disastrous collapse in This lower-welfare product, which is not • On the croft prices. This could take the form of support for allowed to be produced here, would undercut prime lamb in spring 2021 – for the lambs we local producers, take away sales and possibly sold in autumn this year at good prices – and/ force them out of business. Again, we have to … and much more or support for breeding ewes in autumn 2021 if ...Continued on page 3 the store lamb sales are below an agreed trigger 2 THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2020

Message from the chair... Yvonne White finishers if the market collapses following Brexit? Whatever the answer to this year’s sheep price paradox, it’s been a positive type of confusion and bafflement with good prices, giving crofters selling sheep a most welcome boost. I must admit to being none the wiser on understanding the market prices. Hopefully we will never again have repeat of the devastating prices in the 1990s when breeding ewes were fetching 50 pence and lambs were such an absurdly low price that it practically cost more to medicate them than the prices paid. Crofters were coming to the mart then taking back their sheep and lambs – those that could keep them. Many had no choice but to sell, due to lack of facilities and cost of over-wintering extra mouths. Those were bleak days. Crofting survived, being an inherently resilient, flexible and some say stubborn system – not necessarily a bad thing. The range of produce and goods produced on crofts has expanded. This is partly due to resources such as the internet; crofters’ pragmatism and at times ingenious (how many uses are there for a feedbag full of baling twine) problem solving; and their creative approach to working land that in many instances is on the edge in terms of quality, weather and topography. SCF volunteers and chief executive attend many, many meetings on members’ behalf: cross party groups on food and crofting; with Scottish Government ministers and officials; with the Crofting Commission; ACK IN the mists of time, the an economist or expert in international trade give evidence to the Scottish Government announcement of the UK’s departure agreements and machinations, I just cannot and Westminster Parliament; and sit on national Bfrom the EU left crofters in a state of fathom this paradox. boards with other agricultural organisations. All ongoing limbo regarding our premier export Perhaps unsurprisingly, sheep producers and this to lobby at senior levels and ensure a good market for lamb. dealers have varying theories: good lambing standard of representation on crofting. The SCF We were told the whole gambit: from nothing conditions thus more quality lambs; good grass feeds into all these areas to raise awareness will change and it would all be sunshine conditions for store lamb buyers; buyers selling on behalf of crofting members and influences and eternal summer, to the extinction of the on fat lambs quickly due to full order books; policy on a variety of issues which concern our agriculture sector as we know it. It looks like the New Zealand lamb diverted to China as disease members. distinct possibility of no deal, or minimum deal collapsed their domestic pig market; good value This will be my last article as chair. I can hear – much the same as a no deal on most fronts for EU buyers thanks to the low value of sterling. the editor’s sigh of relief over the sound of the high – and all the consequences for exporting lamb Or was it the news that UK and devolved winds – no more late copy and endless chasing. to Europe. So why so much optimism in the governments were committed to step in Thank you for being a member and taking the sheep sector regarding store lambs? Not being financially next year to compensate breeders and time to read of my perplexity. CAGS review The National Development HE CROFTING Agriculture Plan for Crofting Grants Scheme (CAGS) focus T IS intended to have the •• housing; •• a wildlife section – that will Tgroup, made up of government National Development •• signposting; cover, deer, geese, sea officials and stakeholders, has been IPlan for Crofting (NDPC) •• broadband infrastructure; eagles and ravens; looking at how the scope of CAGS can published by the end of the •• local food networks. be extended – such as: •• digital skills; year. •• legislation; •• widening the eligibility criteria, which will Scottish Government has allow crofting land-based activity that •• carbon credits. •• The NDPC, as it currently been working very closely with is not classed as agriculture, such as The NDPC will also contain stands, contains the following the Commission on its role in timber processing, to be included; a number of case studies and sections: the development of crofting. •• extending the eligible agriculture works testimonials from crofters, which •• the Crofting Commission’s Work is also ongoing on a currently supported under the scheme; role in the development of number of other sections of the will hopefully illustrate what is •• introducing standard costs; crofting; NDPC, such as: currently being achieved by •• introducing advanced payments. • Crofting Commission job • financial incentives, which crofters and common grazings, This will be reported on further as the • • creation and partnership will cover the wide range of and also to capture the views of review develops. working; grants and support available the very people the publication •• environment and biodiversity; to crofters; targets.

www.crofting.org THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2020 3 Extensive livestock systems under threat ...Continued from page 1 animal welfare and care of the LFASS has been consistently environment. misused to divert public money, As we went to press, cabinet intended for support to the fragile secretary Fergus Ewing assured areas, to act as a top-up for SCF delegates that reformation of farms on better land. It was to be LFASS is intended. replaced by the Areas of Natural A very productive meeting Constraint (ANC) support scheme between SCF and the minister which was developed to target discussed support to the remote support and which, as NFUS note parts of Scotland that face in their paper, would move money disadvantage through natural north and west to those areas that constraints. A consultative group are genuinely constrained. But will be formed early in the new Scottish Government decided year, in which SCF will be invited to not move to ANC and NFUS to participate, to look at support supported, indeed takes credit for, to crofting, hill farming, areas this decision. The penalty for not of natural constraint and high joining ANC is that LFASS will be nature value areas in the context reduced to 40% next year. of climate change mitigation. As we leave the CAP, there is Crofters will be represented on a gathering consensus amongst this group by SCF. stakeholders that there needs to Mr Ewing was candid about the lack of progress on reviewing be support for the constrained Isle of Skye © Martin Benson - Old Corry, areas, based on ANC, in the new LFASS, a scheme that has been agriculture regime for Scotland. Association recommending a tax on be kinder to the land, are hardier – unfair to the very areas that it Scottish Government has made beef slaughtered after 27 months. needing less external input – and all should be supporting, but COVID-19 it clear that it is considering going This would be a major issue for cattle increase biodiversity with their and Brexit have taken up a huge this way, hence the lobby from the crofters, who almost entirely keep grazing habits. amount of Scottish Government industry farmers. grass-fed cattle. The benefits of Crofters are not going to move resource. The farmers union then add grass-fed for the environment, for to a shed-based concentrated-feed After the meeting, Yvonne further insult by trying to hoard the animal welfare and for the nutritious regime, which would be the reality White said “Crofting offers a payments made on the ewe-hogg value of the end product are well on Region 3, rough grazing land. If great deal in producing food and scheme – the Scottish Upland documented and fuel a growing this tax came into effect it would put retaining communities in remote Sheep Support Scheme – by movement that advocates slower- many crofters out of business. rural Scotland, whilst protecting suggesting it be limited to 20% of maturing grass-fed meat as the Luckily this recommendation the environment and contributing flock. This figure would be fine for sustainable way forward. is being met with wide-ranging to carbon sequestration. It is a field flocks but, again, is taken as Many crofters also keep slow- rejection, not just from crofters sustainable model of land use that a direct attack on extensive flocks maturing native breeds and are but also from the Scottish Beef needs to be supported. We welcome which would need at least 30% already penalised by having to send Association – and, as far we have the intention to reform how public replacements. unfinished cattle to slaughter before seen, just about everyone who money can be used effectively to Then there is the National Beef 30 months. Native breeds tend to is involved in beef production, produce public goods.” Sheep sector most exposed to risk ...Continued from page 1

protect our high standards and protect our local producers. That is only one example. Think chlorinated chicken, over-use of hormones or antibiotics, or beef raised on land cleared from the Amazon rainforest. In the longer term we are not much closer to knowing the shape of support systems after the next couple of years. There will be much arguing over the size of the agricultural support “pie” from the UK treasury, since it is no longer protected by the EU and is in competition with the NHS, education and everything else. Then we have to see how the pie is split between the four home nations; and finally how the Scottish allocation is divided up. So there is much lobbying still to be done on members’ behalf. This is why we need the support of all crofters. 4 THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2020 Crofting law reform Martin Minton of Inksters Solicitors reports

HE LAW Society of Scotland has published a report on Tcrofting law reform. The report follows a consultation earlier this year asking stakeholders for their views of four key areas that require reform: succession, owner- occupier status, statutory conditions of tenure and the definition of crofting community. The resulting report considers the responses, but also the previous 2017 Scottish Government consultation, as well as the work of the Crofting Law Group’s Sump. The law of crofting succession is seen as complex and the report acknowledges this, noting the lack of clarity surrounding intestate succession and the application of the 24-month period in which a tenancy should be transferred following a tenant’s death. It is © Martin Benson - Altandhu, Coigach © Martin Benson - suggested the transfer process itself needs to be clarified, with a clear and money for many crofters who the Commission providing clear of crofting community, a definition statement as to how such a transfer discover, after purchase, that they examples of neglect and purposeful criticised in the Scottish Land is effected, by way of guidance or do not have the crofting status they use. Court case of Eunson v Crofting secondary legislation. assumed they would obtain on That may be welcomed by some Commission. The report suggests In respect of owner-occupier purchase. The report suggests an crofters who feel the Commission’s a more refined definition, but status, it is proposed that an amendment to the relevant section approach to these areas is too takes into account that the term of the legislation. arbitrary. Among other matters application to enable those who may be utilised differently whether Statutory conditions of tenure were reviewed in this topic was the have purchased only part of an in a regulatory context or when owner-occupied croft could be also explored. The report findings appropriateness of provisions promoting the interests of crofting. made to the Crofting Commission state that the 32km residency relating to bankruptcy (and whether The Law Society of Scotland feels to obtain owner-occupier status, requirement has been noted as this should remain), and whether with the Commission having arguably inflexible and outdated the Commission should be able to that prompt action is needed by the discretion as to whether to grant and that further consultation with recover their costs when they are Scottish Government to reform it. This seems to be a sensible stakeholders is required. A statutory required to enforce the statutory crofting law, no doubt a view that and straightforward proposition definition of misuse or neglect conditions. will be echoed by crofters and legal which would save significant time should be considered, along with The report looks at the definition practitioners alike. The future of the Land Court and the Lands Tribunal COTTISH Government recently the SLC in any way. The SLC has always been available. Appellants will incur expenses getting consulted on the proposal to merge respected by our members and recognised as a the case to court, which can deter frivolous Sthe Scottish Land Court (SLC) and the fair arbiter. We would want it to continue to do site applications. Lands Tribunal for Scotland (LTS). visits and convene in the townships. Someone appealing against the Scottish SCF gathered views and responded that it Furthermore, the merged body, the SLC, Government is completely out-matched in regard makes sense to amalgamate the two in order should take on all things affecting crofting and to the representation the SG can afford – at public to have one body, a court, which deals with land, including the sheriff court’s role in land- expense. This deters appellants from coming land-related litigation. The two bodies have related cases. Environmental judgements, march forward to appeal against a SG decision, due many common functions and purposes and dykes, runrig and division of commonties and the to the fear of incurring the SG expenses, which amalgamation could enhance the powers and right to take responsible access should also be could be ruinous. scope of the court. A single body devoted to the transferred. We therefore recommend the introduction of matters currently dealt with by both would have We think that at least one court member should a statutory cap on awards of expenses – so that more coherence and efficacy. have a cultural link to the Highlands and Islands appellants would know in advance their maximum However, the consultation document doesn’t and that it would still be of practical benefit for exposure to expenses; and/or discretion of the make it clear what is driving the proposal, so if there to be a Gaelic-speaking official employed court to limit awards in appropriate cases or to this goes ahead we would like to see the rationale. by the court. Knowledge of place names and the depart from the principle that expenses should The SLC should take in the functions of the cultural links is important. follow success where that seemed to accord with LTS and must remain a court with full powers. Costs awarded should be proportional to the interests of justice. An amalgamation must not dilute the powers of the case and protected expenses orders made THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2020 5 Alastair Maciver, Rogart

Alastair Alastair (right) taking notes

ROFTING LOST one of its most popular cow numbers, built a new house for the croft Alastair was constantly called on to fulfil and faithful stalwarts in October, after a and following that a splendid large shed. diplomatic and representative positions for the Cshort illness. Fitting in croft work in with such a busy organisation, attending the annual hill farming schedule meant a lot of planning and organising, review in Edinburgh and trips to Brussels to put Alastair was born in Brora and brought up in the occasional help from his neighbours forward a case in support of crofting. Rossal, Rogart. After many years in agriculture, being called upon and rewarded in kind when When the SCU obtained charitable status and he joined the local roads squad, in due course appropriate. He supported the local hill grazings became SCF, he served for a number of years as becoming foreman. In the 1970s he became committee, seeking it to take advantage of the company secretary. a representative for the council workers union. grants on offer, one of these being for a forestry Alastair was honoured with an MBE in 2015 for His next role was with a management services scheme. his services to the crofting community. The photo section, based in Brora but covering the whole As if this was not enough, there was the shows Alastair, his wife Betty and SCU founding Highland Region. This saw him drive vast commitment to the local community council, director Jim Hunter, with the Lady Lieutenant of distances in the line of duty. Following this he was which he served in various capacities including put in charge of a manpower services unit, setting a long spell as chairman. Sutherland, Dr Monica Main, who presented the up and supervising youth training schemes. Parallel to all this was his role in the SCU and medal on behalf of the Queen. By the time that this scheme was being SCF. He was there at the inaugural meeting of Our heartfelt condolences go to his wife Betty. wound down, Alistair was 64 and accepted the SCU in November 1985 and was the second Alastair was such a kind man and will be sorely the opportunity of retirement and more time to chairman to serve the local branch. Attending missed by many. work the croft. Although working on the home every branch and area meeting was the norm. croft all his life, it was only in 1981, when his Soon he was rising up the hierarchy of the This article is based on a tribute written several uncle died, that Alastair took up the tenancy. He organisation, attending council and serving for years ago by Alastair’s old friend and colleague, greatly increased the sheep flock, upped the two and a half years as SCU president. John MacDonald. 6 THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2020

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T IS a very powerful forum for informing MSPs and garnering Itheir support for pressing the Scottish Government to act on crofting issues. At the last meeting the main agenda items were crofting development, waste plastic disposal, the Law Society Scotland crofting law consultation and crofting/agriculture support in the rapidly changing post-CAP world. These topics are covered in other articles. A standing item of great importance on the agenda is crofting administration. Bill Barron, CEO, and/or Rod Mackenzie, convener, give an update on business at the Crofting Commission. At this meeting Bill Barron summarised key developments: Mairi Mackenzie had been elected deputy convener. © 2004 Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body The March meeting of the Scottish Parliament Convention of the Highlands and wellbeing when many are working money to expand its regulatory and and Benbecula, if the board wished Islands, at which crofting was to in isolation; expand duties land use (RALU) team (two posts), to do that. have been discussed, had been enforcement; ensure that capacity its regulatory team (one post) and The Commission is taking on a cancelled; but crofting should be to process regulatory casework to bring in two new development development role because it has on its agenda in 2021. keeps pace with the numbers posts. After internal moves to fill a statutory function to promote the Almost all staff had been of applications received; using some of these, the Commission interests of crofting, as well as to working at home since late March, the new SG money to enhance will shortly be advertising for a regulate it; and it has commissioners presenting logistical challenges. efficiency, especially through IT new IT specialist, an administrator/ and staff with skills and knowledge A great deal had been done to improvements (but also a website telephone receptionist with Gaelic, about crofting. The Commission improve connectivity and facilities refresh and a review of the strengths a new member of the RALU team would not have agreed to take for home working. Online board and weaknesses of grazings and the two development posts. on the expanded role without a meetings make it much easier for registration); and deciding how The Commission sees RALU as suitable increase in its funding visitors to observe. The next is on to implement the development vital to crofting development. If and encouragement to expect that 3rd December. role and recruit to the posts in the there are several good candidates a higher level of funding would The Commission board has Western Isles. for these roles, there would be continue. emphasised five priorities: staff The Commission is using the new flexibility to take one each in Lewis TRAINING SCF’s training manager, Tina Hartley, reports

UNDED BY HIE, our Sustain, Diversify, Grow courses are proving a big hit across Fthe Highlands and Islands. The delivery of 20 courses aims to support promotion of diversified activity for short-term economic recovery and growth by sharing innovative practice at a very localised level. On offer we have: •• Crofting the brand – adding value; •• Fantastic food from local producer markets; •• Virtual sheepdogs – Braehillor sheepdog handler training; •• Turkey production for Christmas – how to start; •• Staycations – what do I need to know coming out of Covid19; •• Crofters who diversify – Instagram marketing for your business; •• How to start a local community food hub. Are you able to offer a course that looks at innovative practice and new business models? Do you have any ideas of courses that would support you during Covid19 transition? Want to attend any of our online events? Contact our training team who are waiting to hear from you. Email Tina at [email protected]. 8 THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2020

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Constituency Offi ce 31 Bayhead Street, Stornoway Isle of Lewis HS1 2DU Telephone 01851 702272 E-Mail [email protected] Ask us today for a free quote Ian Blackford MP Member of Parliament for Ross, Skye & Lochaber Broadford, Isle of Skye, IV49 9AP

Future Surgery dates will be advertised in the local press Tel: 01471 822 555 www.strathprint.co.uk Tel: 01349 866397 Email: [email protected] Twitter: @IBlackfordSNPMP 29 High Street Facebook: facebook.com/IanBlackford.SNP Dingwall Proud printer of The Crofter Web: http://ianblackford.scot IV15 9RU THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2020 9 The Scottish Land Matching Service Ian Davidson, independent advisor looking to step back from on common grazings. for the Scottish Land Matching the day-to-day workload. Sometimes that is down Service, outlines its aims and One of the key to people no longer being functions. recommendations when able to physically sustain SLMS was set up was the considerable effort HE SCOTTISH Land that there should be an required around gatherings Matching Service (SLMS) independent advisor and handlings. These Twas launched by cabinet appointed who could people have a great asset secretary Fergus Ewing at the offer free advice and in terms of their knowledge end of September 2019. facilitation. That role and experience; and I was very pleased to be asked is funded by Scottish tapping into that in a joint to give a presentation to the Government and venture with someone Scottish Crofting Federation AGM supported by a number looking to start or develop in September. It stimulated a lot of of rural organisations, a business is an area of very good discussion. details of which can be Ian Davidson great potential. The average age of farmers seen on the website, One of the other benefits and crofters continues to rise and www.slms.scot. It is very much a of joint ventures is that the person it is important for the industry and consortium approach and I am very The burden is shared taking the step back is still involved. wider rural economy to encourage a pleased that SCF has agreed to be with someone who will They have input but the burden steady flow of young entrants. There part of that. (physical and mental) is shared are barriers to young entrants to the SLMS has a database of bring fresh enthusiasm, with someone who will bring fresh industry – particularly lack of access enquiries which now stands at 150 vigour and ideas. enthusiasm, vigour and ideas to the to land and access to capital to get from across the country and beyond, business. started. all of which have been followed There are, of course, opportunities The Land Matching Service up. Enquiries from people looking for. Where an introduction is made, in terms of official sublets, but I was established to try and help to for opportunities far outweighs the it is important to say that this is first would like to explore if there are bridge the gap by providing free number of opportunities available. other options that might help bring and foremost about establishing independent advice and facilitation The website provides a platform people together – protecting the to those interested in developing where people can register interest. a relationship and that not all rights of the existing crofter and at joint ventures. The aim is to try and Registration is a simple and easy introductions will work out. the same time providing opportunity match new entrants and developing process which will lead to a follow- In a crofting context some land and encouragement to the vital next businesses with well-established up contact from me to discuss in is under-utilised compared to generation. I would be interested to crofters and farmers who may be more detail what people are looking how it was previously, particularly hear your views. Helping guide crofting families though succession © Chris Tyler

Janette Sutherland, SAC Portree, on the SAC created this online tool available on the importance of planning for the future. It makes me happy when the older Farm Advisory Service website www.fas.scot/ generations let you know how well succession-planning-crofting, where you can ORKING AS an agricultural advisor the new crofters are getting on, click on your answers to find out the steps you is a varied and interesting job. need to take. W One of the privileges of this role is or you see a common grazing or Another key consideration in crofting is whether helping crofters with succession planning. When sheepstock club re-energised by the crofts have shares in common grazings or may be you have been involved in the discussions, new blood. part of a sheepstock club. Do you know what roles sketched out the plan and completed the maps the existing crofter holds in the common grazings and forms, it is great to see the fruits of the work. about succession: or sheep stock club? It is good to discuss with the This may be younger crofters setting up in their •• livestock wider community so they can either replace those own right or moving into a partnership with an •• agricultural business roles or find other roles for the new entrant that existing agricultural business. There are many •• sheds and equipment fits their skills better. permutations. It makes me happy when the •• houses We made this document along with SAOS: older generation lets you know how well the new •• land – common grazing shares and sheepstock www.fas.scot/downloads/succession-in-sheep- crofters are getting on, or you see a common club membership stock-clubs-points-to-consider. grazing or sheepstock club reenergised by the •• land – inbye (tenanted, owner occupied etc) Sadly, life is uncertain, so no matter how clear new blood. Nowadays, the process for passing on crofts your succession plans are, if you have a croft we Although crofting businesses may be small, or shares involves more steps, in part due to suggest you always have a will to prevent any there are several layers to consider when thinking the Crofting Register. To help navigate this, complications. 10 THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2020

SCF YOUNG CROFTERS N THIS issue of The Crofter we are featuring some of our young crofter members and the Iinspiring work they are doing on their crofts. It is vital for the future of crofting that young people are able to obtain crofts. Getting more young folk into crofting is an ongoing goal for SCF, and we are pleased to welcome younger and new crofters to our organisation, where they can benefit from the experience and wisdom of our older members. Young folk have the energy and enthusiasm that is needed to make crofting sustainable. That energy is also important to SCF’s future and we are keen to involve our younger members as much as possible. Our first very successful young crofters gathering was held in Glencanisp in 2015. Another excellent and innovative gathering took At Glencanisp place via Zoom in August. We have reports from you have diversified into or what you may be assist folk get into crofting. that in this feature, with thanks to all participants. planning on doing. Please contact the editor, [email protected], We are always keen to hear from our members For those keen to get into crofting, this is a if you would like to contribute to a future issue of and will be glad to have more articles in future useful opportunity to reach the SCF membership The Crofter, or indeed to become involved in our issues. If you’re crofting already, it’s always and perhaps make connections. work in any way. interesting to see what folk are doing on the We’d also like to hear about the challenges Please encourage other young folk to join SCF. croft, whether it’s about the breeds of livestock you’re facing in trying to get a croft. This will be For those under 41, a year’s subscription is only you have, what you’re planting or growing, what helpful to SCF as we influence policy-makers to £33.25. Go to www.crofting.org/join-scf. Young crofters gather online

UGUST SAW an online event hosted Fergus Ewing, cabinet secretary for rural Planning an online event was a learning curve, by the Scottish Crofting Federation’s economy, addressed the gathering and the made all the more enjoyable by the small working A young crofters. programme finished with a very interesting group of SCF directors and staff who planned The event showcased what young folk session where panel members from Scottish with me, writes event co-ordinator Ailsa Strange. are doing on their crofts and highlighted the Government, Crofting Commission, SNH, SAC aspirations and concerns of young crofters. The and SCF gave their views on the big picture, the HE PROGRAMME emerged bit by bit as day was chaired Donald MacKinnon, SCF’s vice- main issues for crofting and took many questions. we discussed what was most relevant chair and himself a young crofter, with 65 people The day concluded by informing the gathering Tand engaging in this strange time of participating. that SCF will be taking nominations for the Euan Covid 19. Video presentations made by young crofters MacRae memorial cup for Young Crofter of the showing their enterprises inspired a very lively Year, supported by The MacRobert Trust, with the discussion. Topics covered during the day award presented early in the new year. A visual snapshot of what included local food, horticulture, direct selling of SCF young crofters intend to hold regular meat and other croft products and the Scottish online gatherings for younger folk, drilling in crofting in 2020 means to a Crofting Produce Mark. The lack of available land on specific topic areas such as access to land, range of young people kept coming up and is clearly a major obstacle for common grazings and climate emergency. young folk wanting to get into crofting.

The idea behind session one came from our realisation that people generally love to know what people are doing, particularly following lockdown with many fewer opportunities to meet others. “What have you been up to on your croft?” We spread our net to find a selection of willing young crofters with a story to tell and time to donate. What came back in response was truly a joy – eight stories from different perspectives. From Lewis in the north to Fort William in the south, we gathered short films and photographs giving a visual snapshot of what crofting in 2020 means to a range of young people. These inspiring short films and presentations were patchworked together (another learning curve for me) and offered a perfect starting point for the day. Many of those who gave films also joined us for a Q&A session chaired by SCF board member Beth Rose, which gave a lively and interesting chance to learn more about their experiences. The individual short films are available on the SCF YouTube Channel. I am sure you will love them! THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2020 11

SCF YOUNG CROFTERS

Crofting policy: what’s the plan? The final session of the day began with an encouraging, pre-recorded message from Fergus Ewing, cabinet secretary for the rural economy, reports SCF vice-chair Donald MacKinnon. We were then joined by a panel discussion of Young crofter Beth Rose describes how the what we do, how we do it and the big ‘why decision-makers and industry experts for a SCP mark is used on her croft at Birchwood. join’ question. Everything from our first steer discussion on crofting policy. being sent off, the challenges with butchers, HE THIRD session of the day was the entrance of Brexit, joining the QMS scheme HE PANEL included Siobhan MacDonald ‘Adding Value’, looking at the Scottish and then the SCP mark was covered. (SAC), Bill Dundas (SGRPID), Gordon Crofting Produce (SCP) mark in terms A global pandemic had its impact, so T Jackson (Scottish Government), Claudia of holiday accommodation and produce. we had a quick look at how we adapted to T Rowse (SNH) Rod Mackenzie (Crofting Our Birchwood Croft (Inverness) was used lockdown, understanding our new customers, Commission) and Patrick Krause. Questions as a case study to show how we use both the and therefore changing tactics in social media covered a broad range of topics from access SCP Mark and Quality Meat Scotland when posts – Facebook and on the blog at www. to land, the climate emergency and progress selling meat and other produce directly to our croftingwifie.com –where customers can see on the National Development Plan for Crofting. customers. what meat and other produce we have for sale Access to land proved to be of particular Zoom allowed a virtual croft tour to show at the time. interest to attendees and the discussion that followed demonstrated that this is an issue that the decision-makers are taking seriously. Rod Mackenzie made clear that the Crofting Commission is keen to see more opportunities for new entrants. Crofting during Covid Claudia Rowse highlighted the role that crofting Chaired by SCF director Jonathan Hedges, Delays to work on the croft; difficulties in can play in tackling the climate emergency. participants also shared experiences of crofting ordering fencing and building supplies; accessing Many common grazings have huge potential during the pandemic. Here Jonathan presents the animal feed; less income, meaning less money for peatland restoration. SNH’s Peatland Action questions and answers. to get jobs done; concern over livestock sales; project is working with crofters and other land managers to deliver ambitious targets to restore abattoir shut for private kills; the difficulty of degraded peatland across Scotland. HIS DISCUSSION was facilitated using social distancing in the fank; uncertainty over interactive presentation software. future income; managing on your own with no A series of questions were given to the T one able to help. group in different formats. People answered Access to land proved to individually and their answers appeared be of particular interest. simultaneously for the group to see. It allowed Some positive things about crofting during participants to express their thoughts at the same Covid? time as others. More time to work the croft due to being Siobhan MacDonald highlighted some of Participants’ experience of lockdown seemed furloughed; great place to be during lockdown; the new technology and research that crofters generally positive. Crofts were a good place to more local demand for produce; new customers; can take advantage off to better understand be, despite some challenges. Growth in public everyone at home to help with lambing; the family and ultimately reduce their carbon emissions. awareness of the value of local food production being safe; quiet roads; a feeling of resilience; Examples include carbon audits, feed additives was another positive. having time to catch up with jobs; a time for and improved pasture management. Gordon Jackson restated the Scottish reflection and planning; sharing surplus food; an Government’s commitment to crofting and to How would you describe crofting during increase in wildlife. Covid? encouraging new entrants to the sector. Refreshing, fulfilling, productive, local interest, Bill Dundas explained some of the changes What long-term change do you envisage educational, strange, uncertain, isolation. that have been made to the Croft House on your croft as a result of Covid? Grant Scheme to improve its impact as well as What has been your biggest challenge / the Increasing production to be more self-sufficient; explaining the Scottish Government’s approach impact of Covid? developing local markets, as people are more to goose management. Working from home fitted in well; having time to aware of local produce; diversifying to get more Everyone agreed that we could have done with spend on the croft; with crofting, agricultural suppliers of an income from the croft; being more resilient; at least another hour of discussion to get through and vets stepping up to maintain their services. putting more effort into township co-operation. all the questions. To be continued! 12 THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2020

Crofting advice through

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Call the Farm Advisory Service helpline for up to half an hour of free advice on all crofting and agricultural matters, available for all crofters and smallholders, whether new starts or old hands! Contact your local SAC office or the free FAS helpline for And for advice tailored to your croft and independent, unbiased, local situation, benefit from an annual subscription and up-to-date advice. with SAC, part-funded through the Farm Advisory Service, for £73.43 + VAT for two hours of advice, newsletters and updates.

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SCF YOUNG CROFTERS

During the event, SCF board member Russell Smith outlined the Scottish Crofting Produce Mark.

HIS IS a scheme which certifies that the product is from a croft and is produced Tto a certain standard, adding value to croft produce for our members. The produce must be from a croft, or similar, in the Highlands and Islands, meet defined minimum standards (depending on the type of produce) and the producer must be an SCF member. The mark is free to SCF members, who can then use the name and logo to promote their products. The scheme was originally intended for food, but also includes crafts – made on the croft and using croft produce where possible – and Russell and crofting produce at Cawdor holidays, mainly accommodation, on or run from the croft. “Authenticity” is a key advertising trend and Now we want to take the mark forward, so The aim of any brand is to enable you to either crofting has it. You are living the life and can sell we have a new section on the SCF website. sell at a higher price or sell more at the same that to the consumer as part of the package. We We have a new working group set up. We are price, or both. The crofting brand is associated know this through market research which we looking for more members and we want to get with lots of good things – open space, fresh commissioned in 2011. People are more likely to a project going to drive it forward – revisit the air, good environmental practice, local, natural buy croft produce than generic Scottish produce. earlier research, look at the branding again, push food, as well as preserving culture, history and Like all schemes, it is about giving consumers the brand through advertising and at shows. a healthy lifestyle. Look at the QMS advertising confidence in what they are buying. It has been And we can look at supporting members more for lamb – it is all highland scenery and North running since 2009, so is well established, but by setting up buying groups, sharing learning, Country Cheviots – these are crofting images. not as well known as we would like. and communal marketing. Young Crofter Award 2020

O YOU know someone who deserves to be nominated for Dthis award? They may have been crofting all their lives or are just starting out. Increasing numbers of people 40 and under are choosing to make crofting part of their lives. Help us tell their story by getting involved with the Young Crofter Award 2020. The award celebrates, acknowledges and encourages crofting as a way of sustaining communities, culture and the land. With the support of the MacRobert Trust, we would like to recognise the role young crofters are playing in securing a future for crofting. The judging panel is looking for inspiring young folk who are crofting in a sustainable way, using traditional and/or new ways of working and who play an active part in their crofting community. If you know that crofter you can download the application form at www.crofting.org/about-scf/young-crofters. The winner will be presented, early in the new year, with the Euan MacRae Memorial Quaich, £500, one year’s free SCF membership and a copy of the Horticulture and Woodlands Handbooks. Nominations are open till the end of the year. 14 THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2020

SCF YOUNG CROFTERS

Bee hives Busy with the bees Sam and Sarah A great responsibility Sarah Mitchell and Sam Smith on their new the slow process of getting our sub-tenancy We would like to expand our vegetable plot and crofting activities application granted and the decrofting of the to one day put up a polytunnel. house completed. The wait was much longer Our next step is to improve and add to the ARLIER THIS year we took on Sarah’s than we had anticipated, but we are delighted existing fencing to allow us to welcome our first family’s 7.5-acre croft at Ruilick near both have now come through. sheep onto the croft. We are both vets and so EBeauly. Since getting the sub-tenancy in March, we have to be careful that any future plans for the The croft has been in the family since the have acquired three beehives and recently croft fit in with our busy work schedules. 1700s with Sarah being the ninth generation of harvested our first honey. We have had hens for We feel a great responsibility in carrying the her family to work the croft. We rent the land from a few months now and recently acquired more family croft forward and we know that we are Sarah’s uncle and are in the process of buying to allow us to start selling eggs at our road end. incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to the croft house. We have caught the gardening bug and grow do so. Our main difficulty in getting started has been vegetables in a small plot and in a greenhouse. Gradual succession Janette Sutherland describes her Being included in croft decision Always more to learn generations did – and that’s okay. and her family’s route to passing making My dad was endlessly curious Dad had tried to run his parent’s on a croft. My parents were always very open and always willing to learn and smallholding the same way they about the croft’s problems as well as take advice. I often arrive home had after they passed away and HE DAY the croft tenancy its successes. I look back and marvel from work to be quizzed by my found it to be impossible. “Times came into my name was no on the time they took to answer my mum about items in that day’s change, and we have to change Tdifferent to the day before, questions and listen to my ideas when Scottish Farmer. I hope that this with them,” he would often say. as the transition and shift of I was younger. It gives me confidence trait will help me steer the croft Giving me permission to plough business responsibility had been in my decisions today, now that I can through changing and uncertain my own furrow is a real blessing. very gradual. On reflection there look back on previous decisions that times. It’s been helpful to me to have are many things my parents did, I was a part of. Some turned out well, It may be impossible to run a what he did as a guide, but not as though not appreciated at the others less so! croft the same way as previous a fixed rule. time, which make my crofting life easier now.

‘Don’t be so morbid’ It was only by doing the job I do now that I began to realise people discussing what to do when they and their spouse die was not necessarily the norm. I think it was one of my late father’s favourite topics. We would try and ask him not to be so morbid – to no avail! However, a benefit of talking about these issues from a really young age was that the full spectrum of options was discussed, from both my sister and I wanting to croft and dividing it, to neither of us wanting to croft. I now appreciate the lack of expectations and range of options.

Janette's croft and cattle THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2020 15

SCF YOUNG CROFTERS The sleeping giant

Never has crofting been confronted with a greater challenge, writes crofting landowner and SCF member Mark Pattinson. Donkeys enjoying the view of Mount Arkle S DONALD MacKinnon in his article in the August edition of AThe Crofter states, there are huge opportunities for crofters to use their environmentally friendly land to grow the best local food for the locally expanding population. Lochcarron Estate, which I have owned for 30 years, has over 100 crofts and seven townships. But whereas salmon farming, the Howard Doris dry dock, the Loch Kishorn yacht repair yard and other enterprises provide work and employment, crofting has become the “sleeping giant”. Never before has the availability of Walking the cows out to Strathan locally-grown food been more important in rural Scotland. The lockdown, restricting access to distant supermarkets and shops, gives opportunity for the many small crofts Investing time, effort and money to thrive. Alex Munro is owner-occupier of an eight hectare in the form of a small two-bedroom house. So many Lochcarron crofts are being croft in Oldshoremore, NW Sutherland. Planning is passed for 32-bed hostel, 18 en- held by residents who have retired from suite glamping cabins, a three-bedroom house active work. Their croft land is unfenced WAS given my croft eleven years ago by my with café and a larger four-bedroom house. The and wasted. I have had applications to work father, Stuart Munro, when I was in my mid- first three cabins have been ordered and will the land from many young employees of Itwenties. open in spring 2021. salmon farms and other local business, Without my own croft I would not have This has been far from easy, and not cheap, looking for part-time work. invested the time, effort and money I have. with numerous hurdles to overcome. The driving Another opportunity for Lochcarron Crofts should be handed over decades before force is the creation of much-needed jobs and crofters and those elsewhere in the West they generally are. But now crofts have value improved tourist infrastructure in the local area Highlands is the rapid increase in tourism and are sold on the open market. and wider highlands. as a result of the North Coast 500 scenic The Crofting Commission consented to me The best part of being involved with SCF is road route. The first time this world- being absent from the croft, otherwise I would being inspired by other members and being able famous NC500 meets the scenic coast, not have been able to establish a career and to share and exchange ideas. seventy miles from its start in Inverness, earn a decent salary to allow me to borrow and Some of the threats I see to crofting are: is Lochcarron. invest in my croft, along with CAGS grants which •• The waste of common grazings not being Lochcarron Estate’s twenty miles of I have used. I am a key worker in the aviation/ used. There is potential for crofting townships NC500 road and its side roads, overlooking transport industry, allowing me seven months to do more. Give unused land to community some of the most scenic coastline in the a year on the croft and five months working groups, including community housing. West Highlands, presents the valuable gift in Aberdeen. This benefits the croft, with long •• Difficulties with grazing committees, especially to the Highlands of the massive increase in blocks off-shift giving time to get plenty done. when active crofters with livestock have no tourism, three million tourists per annum. I run Cheviot, a few Soay, Jacob and Shetland more say than a crofter who lives in Glasgow Home-grown food, croft-house hospitality sheep. Highland cattle have been crossed with or London, still classed as a crofter with the and the provision of entertainment venues beef shorthorn and now a belted Galloway bull. same rights. for the tourists could become a major I’m considering getting a white shorthorn bull. •• Crofts sitting empty. source of revenue for crofting. I work two self-trained collie dogs and we •• The average age of a crofter. The training courses run by SCF are not have a few chickens and five donkeys, and the •• The difficulties and delays in registering a only essential guidance in agricultural and kids plan to do donkey rides. They have also croft; and in decrofting for mortgage purposes forestry practice, but also the benefits which instructed me to expand their animal sanctuary. once you’ve got planning. crofting can give for tourism. They want goats next summer and plan to make •• Apportionment refused because you’re goat soap. My son Finlay wants to try the milk developing other parts of your croft. So if you Kishorn directly from his own goat. do work your croft you’re punished, because Strathcarron Through the forestry trust scheme, in 2018 other crofters argue why do you need a IV54 8UY I planted about 1600 trees on part of my croft. three hectare appointment. If I didn’t decroft 01520 733 227 The last four years have seen croft livestock I wouldn’t need land for sheep, but I have to numbers maintained and croft diversification decroft to borrow against. 16 THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2020

SCF YOUNG CROFTERS Crofting and rural communities need young folk

Rod’s croft, looking down to the Beauly Firth Crofting Commission Convener Rod Mackenzie getting a croft. This is not a simple process – and two hundred have done so. Forty eight crofters emphasises the importance of getting young I don’t think it should be too simple. Although we have taken up residence; 29 have assigned their people into crofting. are looking to get crofts freed up we also have crofts, 98 have sublet and 37 have been granted to consider, and deal sympathetically with, the consent to be absent in view of their particular AST AUGUST I was fortunate enough crofter who is giving up the croft. One thing circumstances. Where the crofter is unwilling to to join in with the SCF Young Crofters outgoing crofters must remember is that they resolve any breach themselves, we can step in, LGathering 2020. can keep their croft house and therefore retain terminate the tenancy and let the croft. Obviously Covid meant we could not meet their links in the community. But much more remains to be done. Thanks in person, but over 60 folk joined the event via to the additional funding announced by cabinet ZOOM, which showcased croft-work, aspirations secretary Fergus Ewing earlier this year, we and concerns of young crofters. What came have been able to expand our residency and across very clearly, and was really encouraging, Give a young person the land use team, allowing us to contact more is the number of young people who are already chance to get a foothold crofters who are in breaches of duty. involved or want to get involved in crofting. But you can help as well. If you’re not Without them crofting can’t survive and many in crofting complying with your duties, or if you’re not remote communities would struggle to maintain able to work your croft anymore, YOU have the essential services, like schools. It’s the young power to give a young person the chance to get who invigorate communities and it’s essential When we start the process of duties action it a foothold in crofting. we provide them with the means to stay in their can take up to 18-24 months to complete. Far Please consider it – and if you’re not sure give communities. too long, I hear you say, but the process is laid us a ring to talk through the process, even if you So, what can we do here at the Commission out in crofting law and must be followed. are just thinking of allowing a young person to to help achieve this? One of the main areas we Over the last two years we have contacted sublet your croft to see how they get on. can tackle is to get unused crofts freed up through hundreds of crofters, giving them the opportunity Working together, we can make a difference. duties action to give young folk the chance of to resolve their breaches of duty and already over Succession and assessing crofts for care costs OR MANY years there has as others feel that a tenancy in January. Scottish Government no good trying to assign it when you been robust discussion of should not be valued as an asset. leaves it to local authorities to know that you are going to need care Flocal authorities assessing This would be the only situation determine their policy on this, but – the local authority will treat this as crofts as assets, being valued to we know of where a tenancy on because of different approaches avoidance and will value it anyway. cover the costs of care. someone else’s land is deemed an taken in different areas, we have But it isn’t just about not letting This is a very contentious issue asset. The counter-argument put called on Scottish Government to the local authority sell your croft. anywhere, not just in crofting. forward by local authorities is that issue guidance. Please read Rod Mackenzie’s Of course care costs and local croft tenancies are sold on the open SCF is advising all members to article above. This is about you authorities are strapped for cash, but market. They have monetary value look at their plans for succession. making the choice to pass the croft some argue that taking someone’s and are therefore a capital asset. As it stands now, if a local authority on to someone, perhaps a family capital assets, which they have This issue was prevalent in the deems a croft tenancy to be an member, perhaps an incoming gathered over their lifetime of work, press again recently. asset they will force the sale, despite young family. is wrong in a welfare state. It was discussed at length in plans to assign the croft for free, for If you are coming to the point Some state that if you have the the Cross Party Group on Crofting example to a family member. To stop that you no longer work your croft means to pay, you should. The some years ago and is back on this, the croft must be assigned – pass it on! This is what keeps argument is taken further in crofting, the agenda for the next meeting in advance, in plenty of time. It is crofting alive. THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2020 17

SCF YOUNG CROFTERS Crofting – the good life? A touch of realism from Katrine Fogt and don’t necessary come with a place to live – something that can be as hard to find as the UTE LAMBS playfully jumping around croft itself. My family and I were fortunate to have beautiful green pastures; blue skies already settled in the area when our croft came Cand birdsong above; a crofter strolling up for sale. through fields in a spotless waxed jacket, After a year and a half of sorting out all the legal complete with collie at heel doing exactly what stuff, remortgaging our house and pulling our hair it’s told? out in frustration, the croft was ours and we were Or horizontal rain penetrating every hole in good to go! Or so we thought. This is where the your mud-clad oilskins whilst you struggle up the real uphill battle began. hill looking for the sheep that, yet again, got out. Stepping onto the croft for the first time was Shouting commands to a dog that can’t hear you daunting and overwhelming. Where do you over the wind – with at least one screaming child begin? We had bought a bareland croft with no in tow. I find the latter to be the case more often structures, a knackered fence and a gate that Katrine than not. won’t stay on its hinges. A typical croft. Useful skills, really. I don’t have a collie, or missing sheep for that Three years on, not much has changed. We It helps to have money behind you, something matter, as our sheep aren’t arriving until the end dream of a poly-tunnel, deer fencing, a shed, most of us don’t after handing over our entire life of November. But I do feel it’s important to paint machinery and winning the lottery. Mostly the savings for the privilege of spending our days a more realistic picture of crofting. Even more so latter, because how else are you supposed to mud-clad and wet. Yet a privilege it is and a truly now, with many people keen move to rural areas achieve the former? fantastic lifestyle. and live the good life. I would class crofting as The biggest lesson we have learned from our Just don’t expect fast progress, matching the good life, but it comes with its fair share of three years crofting is that crofters are grafters. gates, stock-proof fencing and blue skies. With frustration and struggles. And inventors. A crofter can make anything from a smile on my face, I will don my leaking oilskins, We are all well aware of the difficulties of nothing – or whatever was left over from the last feed the animals in the driving rain and mend obtaining a croft. They are notoriously hard to project combined with what washed up on the another hole in the fence before our sheep arrive come by, often sold for an eye-watering amount shore, generally held together with baling twine. next month. Heatherlea Black Cheviot Sabrina Ross describes her The care and respect for our small wool business. beloved woolly family and their WWW.BLACKCHEVIOT.COM fibre is present every step of OGETHER WITH my the way and is one ingredient in husband George, we the softness and warmth of our Tare fifth generation undyed natural wool. crofters with a flock of North In addition to our hand- Country Cheviot Hill sheep spun range, to make our wool alongside a smaller flock of rare available for every taste and Black North Country Cheviots. purse, we have a machine-spun Our croft sits in a remote range processed in a British mill. Sutherland strath in the Scottish Finding every step in the Highlands. Here at Heatherlea process fascinating, including we dedicate our time to looking aspects like website design, after our flock, the environment advertising and marketing, I still and croft wildlife. have lots to learn. Meeting kind Despite finding knitting and helpful people along the way unappealing when I was has made it easier. younger, I always loved to wear We love seeing pictures of the knitted socks my mum made. finished garments and one in Who wouldn’t? particular stands out. A lady I was very disappointed to knitted hats for her whole family. learn that black wool is a waste It never fails to put a smile on product. Being environmentally our faces! conscious, I saw an opportunity We know our sheep and to create soft yarn from this rare skeins by heart and are part colour variety and at the same of every step of their life or time reduce waste. production. If you are looking Our sheep are born, raised for a lovely wool gift for and sheared or hand-clipped Christmas, please browse Natural Handspun Wool on the croft. Each fleece is www.blackcheviot.com. graded, sorted, washed, carded A Scottish superstition states From our Fleeced Family and spun in a traditional way – that having some black sheep all by hand. Every hand-spun in your flock will bring good luck. To your Knitting Family black skein, produced on the Formerly a vet, and becoming a croft or by an artisan spinner crofter, I knew I would need to be This Christmas named Chelene, can be traced a jack of all trades – and a little back to the individual sheep. bit of luck is always welcome. 18 THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2020

SCF YOUNG CROFTERS © Karin Beate Nosterud © Øyvind Holmstad Balkehøgda Hill Bondegard Cothrom eòlas fhaighinn air croitearachd HA FHIOS againn bho Chruinneachadh do dhaoine airson barrachd eòlas fhaighinn air Saoil am biodh sgeama mar seo feumail nan Croitearan Òga gu bheil ùidh aig dòighean obrach. air croitean na h-Alba? Bheireadh e seachad Tmòran dhaoine òga ann an croitearachd. Bha mi leughadh o chionn ghoirid mu sgeama blasad den obair a tha an lùib croitearachd, agus Dh’fhaodamaid a ràdh cuideachd gu bheil mar seo ann an Nirribhidh Grønt Spatak a tha bhiodh adhbharan eile air a shon cuideachd, mar cruaidh fheum aig croitearachd air daoine òga. toirt cothrom do dhaoine aig aois oileanaich, a mhìnich fear de na tuathanaich Nirribheach. Air tàilleibh Brexit, blàthachadh na cruinne dà sheachdain a chur seachad air croit no air “Tha Grønt Spatak na sgeama cudromach airson agus meudachadh ann an àireamh sluaigh bu àirigh. Bidh iad uile a’ tighinn còmhla aig toiseach ceanglaichean a chruthachadh eadar àiteachas chòir fada bharrachd de thoradh na talmhainn an t-samhraidh airson deireadh seachdain agus coimhearsnachdan san fharsainneachd. tighinn bhon dùthaich againn fhìn. Dh’fhaodadh oideachaidh nuair a bhios iad ag ionnsachadh Feumaidh sinn dèanamh cinnteach gun tuig croitean a bhith mar phàirt de seo. Ach, tha mu cho cudromach ‘s a tha e gu bheil àiteachas daoine an luach a th’ aig àiteachas sna sgìrean an dàrna leth de chroitearan thairis air aois trì ga chumail a’ dol air feadh na dùthcha, mu na iomallach ann an Nirribhidh”. Tha an aon rud fìor fichead ‘s mar sin feumaidh daoine òga tighinn duilgheadasan a tha roimhe, agus mu na tha aig airson Alba. a-staigh gus croitearachd a chumail a’ dol. ‘S e, bunait a’ ghnothaich uile gu lèir – talamh! Bha cion chroitean rim faighinn aon duilgheadas a còrr is 150 duine sa sgeama am-bliadhna agus A scheme in Norway gives young people a chluinneas sinn tric; chan eil croitearan nach eil mòran dhiubh an sàs ann an obair cruidh. Tha short spell of experience on small farms. The gan obrachadh deònach an toirt seachad, air neo tuathanasan bainne beaga fhathast rin lorg ann scheme gives those, perhaps a generation or two ma tha, tha a’ phrìs ro àrd. ‘S e duilgheadas eile, an Nirribhidh ged a tha an àireamh a’ crìonadh away from croft life, a taste of what is involved, gu tric chan eil na sgilean aig na daoine a tha ag gach bliadhna. ‘S ann thuca sin a bhios mòran and also spreads knowledge of the importance iarraidh chroitean. Ged a tha sgeime trèanaidh de na h-oileanaich seo a’ dol agus mar sin ri of agriculture in marginal areas. math airson sgilean aig an SCF dh’fhaoidte gum bleoghann agus obair bainne eile leithid dèanamh biodh greis-obrach air croit na chuideachadh ìm is càis. Gabhan Mac a’Phearsain Crofting Rhoda Meek, a digital consultant boatbuilder, talented smith and a and crofter in the Isle of Tiree, shares Baptist minister. After his death in her croft history and aspirations. 1984, my father and grandmother bought the title to our croft in Caolas Y FAMILY have been and held it jointly. My grandmother resident in the south east moved to the mainland and although Mcorner of the Isle of Tiree the croft was still held in the family, it Rhoda and Gunna for the best part of four centuries. was worked by someone else. In common with many others, All my childhood holidays were my father left his home island for spent in Tiree. At the age of seven I education and work, so I was born declared my intention to return, do and brought up on the mainland. the house up, and take on the croft One of my earliest memories is a as well. Whether anyone took me fleeting one, of an old man sat in a seriously, I don’t know, but in 2013 chair by the fire in our family home it finally happened. I moved home. in Tiree. In 2016 I took over the running of That would have been my the croft that my father and I now Seanair (Gaelic for grandfather). hold jointly. He was the very embodiment of 2017 saw the arrival of 20 a multi-skilled islander – a crofter, Hebridean sheep from the The croft house with lambing sheep close by THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2020 19

SCF YOUNG CROFTERS Al and Aurore Whitworth share their plans for their woodland croft.

N 2018 we moved to our eight acre woodland croft in Skerray on the north coast, so that we could try The wild croft Ito grow more of our own food and be more self- sufficient. We had spent respectively 13 and 7 years in Shetland and lived in a remote place called Eshaness. We wished to remain in this community but could not persuade the crofter – who has multiple crofts and lives in another village 15 miles away – to rent, or part with, a small area of the croft around our house for growing vegetables. As Al developed his woodworking skills and business, we spent a while looking for woodland across the Highlands and were particularly interested in the woodland croft concept. We saw this perfect-for-us croft on the SCF register and could only afford it thanks to Al having previously worked in the decommissioning industry. We had just managed to pay off our house in Shetland, and getting a big mortgage would not have been feasible, as Al was then self-employed and Aurore was a relief postie. Our plan for the croft has evolved over the last two years as we observe the land and settle in. Al is a part- time carpenter and intends to use some of our own trees for woodcraft in the future. Aurore is currently learning the craft of basketmaking and hopes to focus on this and reduce her hours as a relief postie. Our work on the croft has been focused on creating new no-dig veg beds and sowing seeds from local, native tree species. As well as growing trees for ourselves, we are setting up a wee tree nursery. This autumn we have prepared areas to be planted with basketry willows too, so we can grow our own material for weaving. We are also setting up a willow, alder and birch coppice rotation to be self-sufficient in wood fuel for our Rayburn and stove. We want to show that you can produce food, fuel and other produce from what is considered to be marginal land in a sustainable way and with very few external inputs. We won’t make much money from the croft. For us it is about simplifying our lives and spending time doing things we consider meaningful and enjoyable.

Follow our progress on Facebook and Instagram (The Wild Croft). A website is on the way! on Tiree neighbouring island of Gunna. In 2018 a sheepdog, also called Gunna, arrived. I’m now at a flock of over 60. I’m experimenting with two approaches, firstly doing a Hebridean Texel first cross, and a Hebtex x Beltex second cross to see if I can get a small, hardy but heavier breed for store. At just over five foot, I have learnt to my cost that without serious investment in equipment, the big commercial breeds are not for me! One of the first hebtex lambs My second experiment is with Tiree Tea - Crofter Blend a wee tea label, Tiree Tea and I also go for Luing when it does happen. mutton. Last year I kept my first driving me up the wall that there’s launched the isle20.com shopping Despite living in Falkirk these days, cross wedders and this year I another few years to go yet. site during lockdown which has kept my dad keeps asking when “his” have kept my pure Hebridean In terms of the future, I am fortunate me very busy. cows will arrive! wedders. I’m looking forward to to work remotely in the software I had planned to add cows to the finding out how they taste, but as industry which allows me to be at croft this year, but with everything Rhoda runs tireetea.co.uk, and a naturally impatient person, it’s home and work the croft. I have set up going on, I’ve hit pause. I’ll probably isle20.com. 20 THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2020

ON THE CROFT From Grimsay to Vermont

Reclaimed blackland, Grimsay and Mary (inset) Maria Scholten pays tribute to the work of crash course in Uist crofting agriculture, starting usually in Helvetica font, showing her arts Mary Norton, Grimsay community-fundraiser, at Mary’s croft. Her welcoming greeting was: background, can be read on the website (www. researcher and crofter. “Crofters, nice!” blacklandcentre.org), The Blacklander newsletter From the start she was very supportive of, and and the Peat is like snow leaflet. Worth a re-read HILE THE bright leaves of the generous towards, my work on Uist landraces and a wide audience. Thank you Mary! sycamore remind me of autumn in and became a Shetland kale enthusiast. I saw her SCF’s Donald Murdie commented: “I hope her Wthe new world, Mary had planned on the blue tiny tractor tearing out and throwing many successful projects have been left in good ahead and is – hopefully and deservedly clouds of sphagnum into the air with visible hands. They are almost too many to list; crofting – enjoying a beautiful Indian summer in her pleasure. and boatbuilding on the curriculum at Lionacleit home country. The resources generated through her croft and Plockton; the boat shed on Grimsay; the The news of her departure came to me in work and research are impressive: the Blackland Blackland Centre; Uist Wool; the community the August edition of Am Pàipear. Editor Iain Index as part of her thesis, the reprint of Fraser hub; and others I’ve probably missed. Everything Stephen Morrison did an excellent job capturing Darling’s Crofting Agriculture book; the Crofting she did was meticulously researched and taken her life and career in an extensive interview. I Year handbook for the Sgoil Lionacleit crofting forward with driven determination. She managed recommend ordering the August copy as it will course – both with beautiful drawings by local to take people along with her, no easy task in a do more justice to her achievements than I can artist Bill Neil. Numerous training seminars, first Hebridean crofting and fishing community.” do here. in the old schoolhouse, later in the new boat shed, Patrick Krause concluded, “And can I just add Instead, I will reflect briefly and incompletely with SAC staff, each of them enjoying coming up a big thank you Mary for being such a good friend on her contributions to crofting. Two years ago and staying at the croft house and always with to crofting and to the SCF over these many years; I organised a technical visit to Uist with a small local crofters involved. it has been an inspiration to know you. All good group of crofters from Lochaber to give them a Her writing strong, clear and highly readable, wishes for your new life in your homeland.”

CLASSIFIED ADS Follow us Sell your unwanted croft on Twitter equipment (and other stuff) @SCFHq for just 30p per word. Get in touch: [email protected] or 01599 530 005 THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2020 21

ON THE CROFT ERE WE are at the end of disappointment. Certainly the crop was Donald's another growing season, and the heavy, but it was thick skinned and a bit Hstart of the next, with ground to bland in taste, like a supermarket tomato, be manured and overwintering crops and just about ok for cooking or sliced on hortiblog planted out. a sandwich. We have yet to find a better In many ways, growing conditions red tomato than Olirose. It’s reliable and have been ideal, with a good balance of produces a good crop of lovely plum- warmth and rainfall. Marketing has been shaped fruits over a long season, with the difficult for obvious reasons. We could usual caveat that what works in our soil not operate our usual sales outlet at the and growing conditions will not necessarily croft gate as it would have been difficult suit everyone. to maintain hygiene and deal with cash. Our excellent local shop came to the SCF’s Horticulture Handbook reprinted rescue and sold a good proportion of our It’s great to see the Horticulture produce. The support they gave us, and Handbook back in print. A surge in to other growers in the area, will not be demand during the first lockdown caused forgotten. the original print run to sell out. These small, local businesses have The handbook grew out of a series of become the backbone of remote and meetings and training events that took fragile communities in this year of crisis. place throughout the Highlands and With more diverse and flexible supply Islands in 2006 and 2007, where we chains than supermarkets, they have had the pleasure of meeting very many been well stocked with a good variety of crofters who were interested in diversifying quality food, and our shop has gone the into fruit and vegetable growing. It extra mile for all of us. Let us not forget became clear that there was demand for that, and continue to support our local a definitive guide covering our diverse and food retailers in the long term. They have challenging growing conditions. proved without doubt how much we need Principal authors are Audrey Litterick, them. a horticulture consultant well-known to Highland and Island growers; Calina Which tomatoes to grow? MacDonald, presenter of Anns a Gharraidh We like to try out different tomato on BBC Alba; and John Bannister, crofter varieties alongside our established and nurseryman in Skye. favourites. This year we grew Gardening The handbook is available from SCF Delight F1, which the seed companies head office at £15 to members and £20 claimed to be an improvement on the to non-members, and I’m told it’s flying well known Gardener’s Delight. It was a off the shelves. Re-imagining local food in the Highlands

Would you like to be part of a movement by some inspirational and passionate that is taking action to improve access people, including Pete Ritchie from to local sustainable food here in the Nourish Scotland, Dr Sheila George Highlands, asks Emma Whitham of from WWF, Lynn Cassells from Lynbreck Highland Good Food. Croft, Jo Hunt from Knockfarrel Produce and several others; all sharing ideas, HE HIGHLAND Good Food visions and their incredible work. conference will take place Delegates will work in facilitated Tonline over five Monday groups throughout the sessions to create afternoons in January and February an action plan. Over the course of the 2021, on 11th,18th and 25th January five weeks there will be opportunities to and 1st and 8th February. work in thematic groups of your choice This online conference is the and to work in mixed-interest groups, important second phase of the Highland ensuring you get an opportunity to hear Good Food Conversation, where people the perspective of different people. across the region are re-imagining what We are at an exciting time in our good food looks like – and what a truly history, with a fantastic opportunity to sustainable Highland diet means. We work together to create a better future. have all witnessed how precarious our food system is, and how, during this With creativity, belief, energy and human crisis, it was our local food producers connections, we can create a food and retailers who innovatively and system that works for all; no matter great appetite for change to our food system. where you live or what your income is. passionately rose to the challenge of getting This conference gives an opportunity to work out food to us all. If we work together we can make real, meaningful the solutions as part of a team within a growing There is now a lot of momentum and energy in change. movement. the local food sector and many are keen to see a food system that is better for the planet, better The aim is to create deliverable actions that will For more info, get in touch. for people and better for producers – making this contribute to achieving a Highland food system Follow Highland Good Food Conversation on conversation very timely. that is better for all. This event is for anyone Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. During phase 1 (the Highland Good Food interested in any area of the food sector and who Email [email protected]. podcast), we met some incredible people and wants to be part of the solution. And check out the Highland Good Food Conversation discovered many exciting initiatives. There is a Throughout the five sessions we will be joined website https://highlandgoodfood.scot. 22 THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2020

ON THE CROFT A living legacy for

R MICHAEL Foxley’s croft sits on a north-facing slope above the scattered Dtownship of Achaphubuil overlooking the Loch Eil Narrows. The croft, on Conaglen estate, has been tenanted by Michael’s family for generations. As well as 4 ha of in-bye pasture and 125 ha of hill parks, the croft includes extensive areas of ancient semi-natural woodland. In keeping with many crofts in the western highlands, the cattle went a few years ago but there is still a large flock of blackface, Lleyn and Hebridean sheep. The grazing has been improved by the eradication of bracken from 20 ha over the past 20 years. In 2016 Michael heard about the launch of the Croft Woodland Project (CWP) at the Highlands and Islands Forestry Forum. A partnership project run by the Woodland Trust, the CWP provides free advice and assistance to crofters, smallholders and common grazings committees within the crofting counties, to plant and manage native woodlands. CWP advisors provide advice and help on all aspects of woodland creation, including accessing funding and loans. Following CWP site assessments and discussions with Michael about his objectives for woodland creation, whilst retaining the better Michael and his son Calum-Ruairidh

Trees are a valuable source of woodfuel and provide important shelter for your livestock, crops and buildings.

The Woodland Trust offers free planting and woodland management advice to crofters, Trees for common grazings and small the crofting holders. Find out how useful trees are. community Get in touch. Image: John Bridges/WTML

0343 770 5818 [email protected]

Argyll Small Woods Cooperative woodlandtrust.org.uk/plant THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2020 23

ON THE CROFT future generations ground for grazing, three small areas of 10,000 trees with my family and friends, new native woodland were proposed. often in hail storms. The trees are Once the proposals had been supported thriving and we all have a great sense by Conaglen estate as landlord, an of achievement. The CWP team were agent was employed by CWP to take excellent in giving good advice and the proposal through the Forestry Grant dealing with the complicated FS grant Scheme application process. In 2018, an process. I would very strongly advise approved contract was issued to create active hill farmers and crofters to contact 5.1 ha of upland oak woodland and 2.2 them as to how some of their poorer hill ha of native Scots pine woodland. ground can be planted with long-term The new woodlands were planted over benefits for them.” the next two winters and will extend and Initially established to run for five link the existing woodlands on the croft. In years from 2015, the CWP has recently time, the new woodlands should provide secured funding commitment for a further a range of benefits including improved five years, due to increasing interest and shelter and agricultural productivity, demand from the crofting community. quality hardwood timber, firewood and This second phase of the project is enhanced biodiversity. funded by the Woodland Trust and Michael is now working with CWP and Point and Sandwick Trust with additional Conaglen estate on a second proposal support from Scottish Forestry. to create another 8 ha woodland. For Michael, planting new woodlands is For further information, contact Iona Hyde leaving a living legacy on this family’s (Argyll & Lochaber) on 07840 699427, croft that his children and grandchildren Viv Halcrow (Western Isles) on 07876 will see prosper and grow over the 217034 or Eleanor Garty (Highland and coming years and enjoy benefits from Northern Isles) on 07436 627176. in the future. “It was hard work planting Polycrub® – storm strength from Shetland The Polycrub company as nortenergy Ltd, a successful markets a unique polytunnel/ social enterprise. The company is greenhouse hybrid designed in a trading arm of NCDC, a charity Shetland to withstand extreme that works alongside local people climates. to regenerate Northmavine. Profits The Polycrub concept started life from the Polycrub company are as part of a Northmavine Community reinvested in Northmavine. Development Company (NCDC) Polycrubs are very popular with community project almost thirteen individual growers who need a years ago. Folk in the Shetland robust growing space. Schools and community of Northmavine were community groups have been able keen to reduce food miles and grow to access grant funding for Polycrub fresh produce undercover, but they growing projects and crofters could couldn’t find a product that would also be eligible for funding support withstand the Shetland climate long- through the CAGS grant system. term. So they developed their own! Polycrubs have structural Grant aid from the Climate accreditation and a rating to Challenge Fund allowed 12 growing withstand winds of 120mph, if spaces to be built throughout built to spec. The company has Northmavine. Each super-strength developed and improved the initial structure was split into shared plots. range which now includes Peerie Once the community growing Polly, a three-metre-wide Polycrub; project was complete, it attracted Polycrub Classic, a four-metre-wide lots of interest from other community version and Polycrub Opyl, a four- groups and individuals who wanted metre-wide structure. The Opyl is to buy the product. The Polycrub of particular interest to crofters as was born and they are now sold in it is suitable for storage or small kit form as far away as France and livestock and poultry. Each range the Falklands. comes in a variety of lengths. The Polycrub company trades 24 THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2020 Sheep owners wanted to help investigate sheep parasite control N SCOTLAND there are approximately year. Once implemented, economic and 15,000 hill and upland crofts and farms performance data will be collected to Iwith sheep, representing around 60% analyse the impact of improved disease of the whole sector. control at croft and farm level. This Despite these numbers sheep production will allow the development of practical is becoming increasingly demanding for recommendations on how to optimise a number of reasons, including parasite internal parasite control. infections. The main parasites affecting The project plans to recruit sheep owners grazing sheep and lambs are roundworms over the next six months. We are looking and liver fluke, which are usually controlled for crofters, farmers and vet practices, in hill by the use of anthelmintics. However, and upland areas, who would be willing to both of these parasites have developed complete a short questionnaire for us. We resistance to these drugs, threatening would also like to identify about ten focus the ability of sheep owners to sustainably crofters or farmers willing to take part by control these infections. sharing faecal samples from their animals To help tackle this, Moredun Research and information about their croft or farm. Institute has recently funded a new Focus crofters and farmers will gain PhD student to work on a project titled: Swaledale sheep, drawn by PhD student Eilidh Geddes information on the parasites present on the “A holistic approach to internal parasite be identified, their parasite challenge assessed land, the anthelmintic resistance status of control on hill and upland sheep farms”, in and their approach to internal parasite control their flock and advice on how best to treat their conjunction with SRUC and the University of monitored over a full production year. flock in the future. Edinburgh. After initial data collection and analysis, The project aims to identify the scale of customised options for parasite control will be Anyone who is interested please contact Fiona anthelmintic-related issues faced by hill and proposed, implemented and monitored on the Kenyon ([email protected]) or upland sheep owners, by gathering questionnaire focus crofts and farms over the next production Eilidh Geddes ([email protected]) information. In parallel, focus crofts and farms will for more information.

MEMBERS PAGES

SCF’s annual general meeting project team and to web designers at the board’s discretion, while Barbara Thayer had left the Lumberjack Digital, with a special designated funds are tied to organisation and Erin Matheson mention of SCF’s IT support, specific items – such as the had taken over her role and was Geoff Mandeville. new website. Restricted funds working hard and coping well with Yvonne confirmed that are grants to SCF for particular, the challenge. Thanks were noted agricultural support continues to be individual projects such as to Barbara for her work over the CF’S AGM took place a huge priority for SCF, particularly training. Staff salaries are paid past years. using Zoom on 10th with Brexit looming. SCF strives from core funds, ie membership Donald MacKinnon was re- SSeptember 2020. constantly to build good working subscriptions. appointed to the board and SCF chair Yvonne White relationships throughout its work, Three objectives are crucial Jonathan Hedges was ratified as welcomed members and staff. resulting in our being listened for SCF in managing income and a director, having been co-opted In her chair’s report Yvonne to and respected, representing expenditure: onto the SCF board in August explained how SCF had members at the highest levels. a. services to members eg 2019. Fiona Mandeville was also supported and represented Membership numbers are advice and representation; ratified as a director, having been members during the pandemic, holding their own in what is a co-opted onto the SCF board with effective communications challenging period for crofters and b. lobbying government and in March 2020. Beth Rose was from staff who were working from agriculture. To do the best possible agencies and ensuring ratified as a director, having been home, digitally and by video. job for crofters, SCF needs as crofting’s voice is heard; co-opted onto the SCF board in SCF had performed well over the much support as possible through August 2020. Sadly, Beth has c. development, eg the SCF past year, despite the pandemic, membership. recently stood down, due to other training project. utilising new communication There is a significant workload demands on her time. strategies where possible. Staff ahead, but the organisation had Funding sources which SCF Following the AGM, guest had assisted members, with the achieved a great deal in the past would normally apply to had been speaker Ian Davidson talked about help of the board and council who year. Yvonne concluded her report diverted to Covid mitigation, so it the Scottish Government Scottish provide advice and experience by thanking everyone for giving was even harder than usual to find Land Matching Service. A very when required. This voluntary their time so freely on behalf of funds for new projects. interesting question and answer input is vital to SCF. members. Patrick emphasised how much session followed and all agreed The SCF training team were SCF’s annual accounts for is achieved though the support that the service had good potential doing an excellent job and a new the year had been signed off. of SCF’s volunteers. He thanked to free up unused land. Ways in project, Sustain, Diversify, Grow Patrick Krause explained that the board and council for their which it could be promoted to had been funded by HIE. much of the organisation’s funds considerable amount of donated crofters were identified. The new SCF website is were allocated to specific future time – and SCF staff for their hard Yvonne concluded the meeting operational and a very good expenditure. Unrestricted funds work. with thanks to Ian and to all for resource. Thanks were due to the are available for expenditure SCF financial administrator their participation. THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2020 25

MEMBERS PAGES How we work – and how you can help

CF’S GOVERNING body is its board If you feel you have the time, commitment and of directors, people from a variety of enthusiasm to devote to the preservation and Scrofting backgrounds with an array of Getting involved is an future of crofting development, do get in touch expertise needed to run the organisation. opportunity with Patrick Krause or company secretary Fiona The board is advised on policy positions by a Mandeville for more information, sending an council of representatives, crofters representing outline of your skills and how you see the future crofting areas or specialisations. Specific tasks makers at national, UK and EU level; the judicious development of crofting and SCF. and topics are worked on in detail by our working running of the organisation; problem-solving and For the SCF board we welcome members with groups, comprising members of the board, council helping members; encouraging others to become experience of crofting; crofting policy; business and others with appropriate expertise. members and participate; and much more. management; financial administration; crofting Directors are responsible for the governance SCF board meetings take place four times a law; rural development; communications; but of the company and, as SCF is a charitable year. Until this year, two meetings were face-to- board skills are not restricted to any of these. company, they are also known as trustees. face every six months, along with the council. We are looking for commitment to crofting and We aim to have diversity of representation on The other two board-only meetings used to be our communities and a willingness to get involved our board and council – from women and men of by teleconference. Due to the pandemic we have as part of our team. These attributes are the main all ages – and are always interested in hearing moved to meeting by video-conference, which is consideration. The current SCF board co-opts from members who might consider bringing working well and we had our first AGM by Zoom and the AGM ratifies new appointments. their skills and experience to enhance SCF’s this year. Our working groups meet online when The path is likely to start with an opportunity to role as the only organisation solely dedicated necessary. join one of our working groups, progression onto to campaigning for crofters and fighting for the Directors and council members are all the council and ultimately the board. Advice and future of crofting. volunteers who give their own time willingly to help support is always available from other board and SCF directors serve a three-year term, which their fellow crofters and the crofting cause. While council members and staff. may be extended for a further three years by our work is important and serious, our meetings mutual agreement. The work is varied and are informal and friendly. Getting involved is an This link will take you to the “meet the interesting. It ranges from forming policy and opportunity to extend your networks and can be team” page on our lovely new website: representing SCF and crofting interests to policy- fulfilling and enlightening. www.crofting.org/about-scf/scf-team. 26 THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2020

MEMBERS PAGE GDPR and SCF Privacy Policy HE SCF Privacy Policy was introduced in Why we need your personal information and take reasonable steps to ensure third parties 2018 in order to comply with the General We need to collect your personal information only process the disclosed personal information in TData Protection Regulation (GDPR) and for legitimate purposes and so we can (i) manage accordance with those purposes. built on the existing SCF Data Protection policy. your membership (ii) manage bookings for training These third parties include: The GDPR sets out seven key principles courses and events. which should lie at the heart of our approach to •• Parseq, who process direct debit payment processing personal data. These are: We will use your personal information to: instructions securely on our behalf; •• provide you, as an SCF member, with core •• 34SP provides and maintains our IT servers and •• lawfulness, fairness and transparency member services, including your membership email accounts; •• purpose limitation card and renewal notice, together with other •• Mailchimp distributes some of our email •• data minimisation relevant communications from time to time; communications, including our monthly •• accuracy •• provide you with updates on training courses, e-newsletter; •• storage limitation whether you are an SCF member or not; •• Ritsons Chartered Accountants prepare SCF •• integrity and confidentiality (security) •• send you, as an SCF member, a monthly end-of-year accounts; •• accountability e-newsletter and The Crofter journal; •• Inksters Solicitors provide legal helpline service •• engage with you, as an SCF member, on subjects to members; SCF has to consider what is relevant and relevant to our role representing you, including •• Training tutors undertaking our training courses. appropriate and we need to be confident that obtaining your views in surveys for research process and purpose are transparent to members, purposes, informing you of events and requesting How we protect your personal information that the purpose is something that the individual your involvement in our campaigning activity; Your personal information is stored in our member would reasonably expect and that we •• raise awareness of crofting through photographs, membership and/or training databases, which act within our lawful basis (legal obligation and videos and live-streaming at events and training are password protected. Paper records are legitimate interest). – we will use this for promotion, education and stored securely in lockable cabinets. Your data is Members’ details are stored on a database development purposes; accessed by our staff and members of our board in HQ where they are accessed by staff. •• respond to your requests for information, and council only for the purposes set out above. Occasionally members’ information is shared with comments, complaints or concerns. your representatives on our board or council in How long we keep your personal information order that they can carry out their work in helping Why we need your personal information – legal We only keep your personal information for members with individual problems, servicing obligations as long as necessary. This is to provide you with members, recruitment and so on. Our privacy We are under a legal obligation to process our membership services and/or records beyond policy needs a small amendment to reflect this certain personal information relating to our the lifetime of a given training project, for audit – ie the line that says “Your data is accessed by members for the purposes of complying with those purposes. our staff only for the purposes set out above” will obligations under: We will review and delete your personal be amended to say “Your data is accessed by our •• The Companies Act 2006 – to maintain a information where you have not renewed your staff and members of our board and council only register of our members, which includes name, SCF membership with us after the auditing period for the purposes set out above.” The amended address, the date admitted to membership and is complete or, for the lifetime of any given training version follows. the date on which that membership ceased, the project, whichever is appropriate. holding of general meetings, including issuing Data retention in relation to finances is required Fair Processing Notice (Privacy notice) notices and voting arrangements. to ensure Gift Aid claims remain valid and that The Scottish Crofting Federation (SCF) is a •• The Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) SCF’s financial audit trail is in line with accounting membership organisation solely dedicated to Act 2007 – to check that our tutors and standards. campaigning for crofters and fighting for the future volunteers are able to undertake regulated work We keep certain personal information in order of crofting. with vulnerable groups when required. to confirm your identity, whilst you were an SCF •• The Equality Act 2010 – which requires us to member and the duration of that membership. We take your privacy seriously and this privacy process personal information so as to make We do this to comply with the Companies Act notice sets out how we will use your data, who reasonable adjustments where necessary. 2006, which requires us to keep a register of our we will share it with, how we keep it secure and •• We use aggregated and anonymised reports members. your rights as a data subject. of personal information for equality monitoring purposes, thereby enabling us to evaluate and You have the right to: What we need from you promote equality of opportunity in both the work •• request that we correct your personal data, if When you join as a member of SCF, renew place and training, relating to age and gender. you believe it to be inaccurate or incomplete; your membership or take part in training, we will •• request that we delete your personal information; ask you for the following personal information: Other uses of your personal information •• access the personal data that we hold about you We may ask you if we can process your personal through a subject access request. •• contact details – name, address, email address information for other purposes. When we do, we and phone number; will provide you with an additional privacy notice, There is an unsubscribe button at the end of •• date of birth – to calculate your membership explaining how we will use your information for all email communications sent to you through category; these purposes. Mailchimp. •• payment details – bank account number and sort code; Who we share your personal information with If you have any questions at all about this •• equality information – your gender, disability We may share personal information with privacy notice please call us on 01599 530005 needs, etc; professional and legal advisors for the purpose of or email us at [email protected] •• any additional information for the purposes of obtaining advice. SCF employs third party suppliers making a training event booking, including your to provide services. These suppliers may process You can also contact us in writing at: next of kin, relevant health conditions, etc. personal information on our behalf as “processors” Scottish Crofting Federation, Unit 26 Kyle and are subject to written contractual conditions to Industrial Estate, Kyle, IV40 8AX If you do not provide us with the personal process only that personal information under our information that we need, this may affect our ability instructions and to protect it. If you are dissatisfied with how we deal with to offer you our membership services or limit your In the event that we share personal information your personal information, you have a right training opportunities. with external third parties, we only share such to raise a complaint with the Information information strictly required for the specific purpose Commissioner’s Office – www.ico.org.uk ScottishTHE CROFTER, Crofter Advert_1216_Scottish DECEMBER 2020 Crofter Advert_0511 16/12/2016 10:34 Page 1 27

CROFTERS INSURANCE HELPING YOU WEATHER THE ELEMENTS SINCE

Find out more by contacting your local NFU Mutual branch at nfumutual.co.uk

The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited (No. 111982). Registered in England. Registered Office: Tiddington Road, Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire CV37 7BJ. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. A member of the Association of British Insurers. For security and training purposes, telephone calls may be recorded and monitored. 28 THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2020 Farewell to Lucy pursue full-time academic research with Thank you UWS in Paisley, although I will still be O OUR 2000 It is very encouraging home based in Loch Broom. members, we offer a to see that our younger From the very first days of working T very heart-felt thank membership is growing – with SCF I enjoyed every minute. The you for your support. and you are very welcome. first gig, doing night classes on IACS And a special thank you You are the future of this and the CAP, which could have been goes to the 900 who have well-known and respected very dry, was quite the opposite, with a been with us for over 20 organisation – the only great class of crofters from Inverasdale years. That is commitment – organisation that is dedicated who were great craic and kept the banter and it is really appreciated. to fighting for the future of going. Over two-thirds of the 900 crofting. After this, working with Tina, Donna, have been with us for over Without the support of all E ARE losing one of our Cathy and Ailsa, we ran a couple of long- 30 years! our members, which enables valued employees, Lucy term training projects which took me as You helped to form SCF to continue its important Beattie, as she embarks W far afield as Barra, Raasay, Lewis and this union and have kept work, crofting would be facing upon the marathon journey of a PhD. Kilmartin. These projects were just truly it thriving as the crofters’ even greater challenges. Lucy has been wonderful to work inspirational to work on. Not only to see representative. with – creative, diligent, fun … the list of the progress that folks made but also to complimentary adjectives is very long! learn new things from meeting such a She is one of those people who has wide variety of people. boundless enthusiasm and manages to SCF is a great organisation to work SCF e-newsletter cram more into ‘the unforgiving minute’ for. The staff, the board and council than it is right for a mere mortal to do. Are you getting the SCF and numerous other volunteers are We wish you all the very best in your monthly e-newsletter? such a dedicated team. I will miss endeavours, Lucy, and hope that Dr Straight to your in-box them. However, I am still a member Beattie comes back to SCF. every month, it keeps you of SCF. I am a farmer, not a crofter, up-to-date with crofting but living in a crofting area I recognise Here is a message from Lucy: news, training, funding all the challenges of production in and events. If you would remote and rural areas. I am therefore Farewell from Lucy: like to start receiving it very passionate about the work of the just get in touch with HQ organisation. I’ve been working in the SCF training – 01599 530005 or email department on and off since 2012 [email protected] with your Le gach dùrachd but at the end of September I left to email address. Lucy

How to contact us

Postal address and registered office GREETING Scottish Crofting Federation Headquarters CARDS Kyle of Lochalsh IV40 8AX www.strathprint.co.uk General enquiries Advertising: Pack of 10 - £5 + P&P and membership: Fiona Macleod [email protected] [email protected] 01599 530 005 01863 766386 tel: 01471 822 555 ︱ tel: Training: SCF legal helpline: [email protected] 01599 230 300 01854 612 220 visit www.crofting.org The Crofter: for full contact details Fiona Mandeville, editor [email protected] Company Number SC 218658 Charity Number SC 031919 01471 822 297

Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information printed in this publication, SCF cannot accept liability for errors or omissions. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the SCF. ︱ Isle of Skye Broadford, Strath Print, by Produced