Sustaining Island Abattoirs in Scotland
27th November 2013
Improving the economic, environmental and social sustainability of local facilities.
A project inspired by HRH The Prince of Wales will see six of Scotland’s island abattoirs benefit from a new attempt to improve their economic viability and business resilience. Funding and support from The Prince’s Countryside Fund and the Scottish Government for the Sustaining Island Abattoirs in Scotland project will help to secure the future of facilities in Shetland, Orkney, Islay, Mull, Lewis, and North Uist.
Small abattoir facilities are important parts of often fragile rural communities. They enable local agriculture businesses to capture local economic benefits and help sustain the outstanding island environment, as well as providing local food provenance for the tourism industry. However, increasing costs and regulation have threatened the existence of abattoirs in areas which are often economically vulnerable.
HRH The Prince Charles, Duke of Rothesay, as he is titled in Scotland, has long been convinced of the importance of retaining island facilities and, as a result of support from his Countryside Fund, a three year project has started and is being delivered in partnership with each abattoir by the Scottish Agricultural Organisational Society [SAOS] and Scottish Business in the Community [SBC]. The main focus to begin with will be on securing business support to develop more sustainable businesses models. David Stewart is the new Business Support Manager for the project and with support from the Advisory Board will bring in expertise to help each facility. The project is addressing some of the major issues facing the abattoirs by providing:
• Funds for improvements
• Specialist business mentoring support
• Development of the market opportunities
• Support for staff training and apprenticeships
• Marketing initiatives to drive sustainable throughput
Along with the benefits to abattoirs, an estimated 20% of all the farm businesses, 2,162 holdings on the islands, will benefit directly from this project - 15 young people will be offered improved skills and job opportunities. Environmental impacts and animal welfare will also see improvements.
His Royal Highness said:
“I have always passionately believed in the importance of sustaining our rural communities and these facilities are vital for the local agricultural businesses and economy. It allows farmers and crofters to add value to their produce, tourism providers to promote local provenance and local people to have local food. It is my strong belief that with the generous assistance of the Scottish Government, these businesses can not only have a sustainable future, but can at last help capture the increased consumer demand for traceable, authentic and quality UK meat. I am delighted that two of my charities, The Countryside Fund and Scottish Business in the Community have been able to support this project and I look forward to seeing a real, lasting difference.”
SAOS is Scotland’s expert on farmer co-ops and food industry collaboration, providing a range of specialist information, development and consultancy services.
Scottish Business in the Community, one of Prince Charles, Duke of Rothesay’s Charities, are Scotland’s lead business organisation in responsible and sustainable business.
Scottish Government, through their devolved rural and environmental powers, support rural and farming communities.
The Prince’s Countryside Fund provides grants to support the people who care for our countryside.
