Bishop Helen-Ann attended the annual National Farmers' Union conference held on Tuesday in Westminster.
The conference had as its theme ‘Foundations for the Future’ and included a session with the DEFRA Secretary of State, The Rt Hon Steve Reed and other sessions looking at science and technology, export, and investment. Additionally the packed schedule included the annual ‘Henry Plumb Lecture’ which this year was delivered by Paul Johnson, Director of the Institute for Fiscal Studies.
The Bishop enjoyed connecting with key leaders in the farming and agriculture sector and building on relationships she has developed over several years of engagement with the annual Oxford Farming Conference and throughout the 11 years of her episcopal ministry across diverse rural contexts.
Bishop Helen-Ann commented: "It was great to be at the NFU conference and there was a huge amount of high-quality input so much of which resonated with our diocese in its diverse rurality but also in the ways in which we are seeking to grow God’s kingdom across our parishes, chaplaincies, schools and ministry contexts.
"Feelings were understandably high in the politics session, with the DEFRA Secretary of State receiving a polite but robust reception over the Government’s decision to axe Agriculture Property Relief (as well as Business Property Relief). Farming as we know from our rural communities is much more than a job, and farmers and their families face increasing pressures caused by isolation and loneliness and the impact of the climate crisis.
"The Conference also struck a positive note with inspiring stories of growth and innovation and a strong sense of collaboration and togetherness. Several conference delegates spoke to me about the important role that the Church continues to play in the rural sector. This was a reminder to me of the many ways in which our rural parishes, clergy and people continue to show such dedication and commitment to their communities and the importance for us as a diocese and in advocacy to the National Church to ensure proper resourcing is enabled in rural contexts."
Main Photo Credit: The National Farmers' Union