If you've ever experienced the pangs of parental guilt, you'll understand the unique challenges faced by farmers. The sense of responsibility for the land and its legacy is deeply ingrained. From the earliest days, farm kids learn that their duties come before personal pleasures. Christmas mornings are spent feeding animals instead of opening presents, and parents miss special occasions due to the demands of livestock. This is the life of a farmer, where the farm is not just a business but a generational asset.

The Battle Against Inheritance Tax

Farmers are fiercely fighting against the government's new inheritance tax changes. They believe this policy is a land grab, as it fails to recognize the public goods they provide. Farmers want empathy and recognition for their role in producing food, caring for the environment, and supporting rural communities. When farmers like Clare Wise stand on stage and share their struggles, it helps others understand the weight they carry. From unexpected tractor bills to poor harvests, every aspect of farm life affects their financial and emotional well-being.

The Impact of Brexit

Since Brexit, farmers' incomes and living standards have been declining rapidly. They are paid the same for a tonne of wheat as they were a decade ago, while crop yields are devastated by flooding and climate breakdown. The lack of implementation of new environmental subsidy schemes and the imposition of a fertiliser tax add to their burdens. Farmers feel they are being squeezed from all sides and wonder how much more they can take. They want fairness and the opportunity to invest in their farms and grow their businesses.

The Human Side of Family Farms

Clare Wise's story reveals the human side of family farms. She struggles to afford school shoes while dealing with tractor breakdowns and poor harvests. The farm and personal life are intertwined, and when one falters, the other suffers. Despite the financial hardships, she finds deep fulfilment in her work. Her family has been producing food for generations, through wars and crises, and they want to continue that legacy. Farmers like her are the backbone of the country, providing essential food and nourishment.

The Value of Family Farms

Family farms have withstood the test of time, through world wars and a pandemic. They are a vital part of the country's food supply and cultural heritage. Clare Wise's farm in County Durham, with its 300 acres and damp farmhouse, represents the hard work and dedication of generations. These farms are not just about profit; they are about pride, responsibility, and a sense of purpose. Farmers want to be respected and supported, so they can continue to provide for the nation.