Do you keep livestock? Would you like to share your views? Defra is interested in understanding the issues for smallholders and hobby farmers keeping animals.

They are organising focus groups, run by independent academics, and are looking for smallholders to be part of groups of 6-9 people. The discussions in the groups will be summarised to help Defra provide better advice and support to smallholders and hobby farmers.

The first focus group will be held in York on Weds 10th February between 12:00 and 2.30 with lunch provided and reasonable travel expenses will be paid. They would like to have a broad range of views so if you would like to be part of the group please contact Merewyn.loder@defra.gsi.gov.uk by January 22nd.

If you can’t attend that time or place but would like to be involved then let them know as they will be organising other groups across the country.