The purpose of NFU Scotland is to promote and protect the interests of the Scottish farming industry, influence government, the public and consumers to that end, and assist its members to meet the needs of customers.
Representing Farmers, Crofters and Growers
NFU Scotland, formed in 1913, is Scotland's lead agricultural
organisation representing 10,000 farmers, crofters and growers the
length and breadth of the country. NFU Scotland works
alongside its sister organisations in England, Wales and Ulster as
well as other rural organisations to promote and protect the
interests of Scottish agriculture.
Keeping Members Informed
NFUS provides regular and accurate information on all major
policy and legislative matters to help members keep on top of the
main issues which affect their businesses.
Our fifty-two Group Secretaries are the local experts
and the first point of contact for members.
NFUS is organised locally into 9 regions with 78 branches
providing a focus for local activity. Activity within
the regions is supported by the work of the 7-strong membership
team.
At our Edinburgh head office, we have a team of policy managers
covering the main agriculture subject areas. If you
want to know the latest on any agricultural issue - and if you are
a member - contact NFU Scotland.
Members receive the Scottish Farming Leader, the NFU Scotland's
monthly magazine.
Political Representation
NFU Scotland is committed to promoting the interests of farming
in Scotland. That means listening to our members and
developing policies which are promoted to government and others of
influence to make sure that Scottish farmers are allowed to operate
in a fair and equitable political environment.
NFU Scotland lobbies the Scottish Executive, MSPs and their
committees to keep rural issues at the top of the political agenda
and to make sure the farmers' voice is heard.
We influence government policy at Westminister, taking the case
for Scottish agriculture to MPs , the Cabinet and the Prime
Minister.
Through our office in Brussels we get right to the heart of
Europe where over €40 billion is allocated annually to the member
states of the European Union under the Common Agricultural
Policy. NFUS fights for Scotland's share.
Influencing Public Opinion
NFU Scotland has a very high public profile through its forceful
and forthright defence of Scottish farmers' interests. We use
this profile to tell the real story about farming through hundreds
of radio and TV interviews each year. We are widely respected
as the voice of Scottish agriculture dealing with thousands of
media enquiries every year.