Hannah Chiswell, PhD scholar funded by the John Oldacre Foundation

V2 Scholarships from the John Oldacre Foundation

The rising global population, climate change and a decline in production has seen both UK and international governments pressing for increased food production for the first time in 30 years.

The Centre for Rural Policy Research at Exeter is at the forefront of research examining the impact this change of policy will have on British farmers and the challenges they face to meet it.

PhD scholar Hannah Chiswell is at the heart of this intensive work thanks to funding from the John Oldacre Foundation.

Professor Michael Winter, Co-Director of The Centre for Rural Policy Research said: “Global food security is something which should concern us all. Farmers are now being urged to produce more but unlike the war years this is also set against the need for sustainability.

“This is one of the greatest challenges the agriculture industry has ever faced and through our research we are helping both the industry and policy makers to make better informed decisions as to the best way forward.”

Hannah is investigating how UK farmers are responding to the calls for more productive and sustainable farming. In particular, she is interested in whether our farming is ‘fit for purpose’ in terms of farmers’ confidence in the future and capacity to respond to the new challenges. Hannah has a particular interest in younger and aspiring farmers and the issue of farm succession.  

Hannah said: “This is an important field of work which has been made possible thanks to the generosity of the John Oldacre Foundation. I am extremely grateful for their support.”

Steve Charnock of The John Oldcare Foundation said: “We are delighted to be able to sponsor this research project whose results will have such clear practical application.”

Date: 5 February 2013