Diversity Discussion
NFU Scotland has recently launched research to explore how a wider cross-section of people from across Scotland can get involved with the union and it’s work.
NFU Scotland board has made diversity and inclusion a key priority for 2024. Caroline Millar, who has just completed three years on the NFU Scotland Board, is leading on the project to undertake research and to present recommendations in the Autumn. NFU Scotland’s Policy Advisor Lucy McGillivray has been working alongside Caroline and support the work being undertaken.
The “diversity discussion” included all types of diversity and included:
- Interviews with other agricultural and non-agricultural organisations about their representation on boards and committees and their progress in making their organisation inclusive
- Analysis of existing engagement opportunities across NFU Scotland and levels of diversity
- A survey gaining the views of both farmers and non-farmers, members and non-members
- A Diversity Discussion roadshow across Scotland which took place on 8th July for a week where anyone with an interest came along in person and took part in conversations and provided their ideas and feedback
- Online meetings to gain views for anyone not able to meet in person
Reflections from Policy Advisor, Lucy McGillivray on the project
Over the past few months Caroline Millar has been undertaking a research project into how NFUS can improve on inclusion, diversity and engagement after the Board of Directors made it a priority at the start of the year. I have been the staff support for the project and have thoroughly enjoyed working with Caroline on this important piece of work.
As part of the research we have launched a survey, interviewed external organisations on the subject and conducted open meetings and focus groups to understand how NFU Scotland can engage with and represent everyone contributing to Scotland’s agriculture sector. This is why back in July, myself and Caroline Millar embarked on the Diversity Discussion Roadshow and spent a week travelling to all NFUS regions. We started off the week in Kinloss, then onto Stirling, Dumfries, Kilmarnock, Oban, Dingwall, Kinellar, Shetland, and finished off the week in Orkney. And last but not least, we visited Lothian and Borders.
Over the course of the week, we had some insightful conversations with people from all walks of life. Key takeaways from the roadshow include the importance of effective Chairing in meetings, including making people (especially new people) feel welcome; sticking to time, ensuring every voice is heard and most importantly call out any inappropriate comments or language. Other key issues were use of language, and the importance of communications in achieving meaningful engagement.
Caroline is in the process of writing up the research findings into a report with recommendations that will be presented to Board in the Autumn. Diversity of thought is essential for any organisation and sector to thrive. This is why this piece of work is so important and will help to improve the Unions engagement going forward.