Forces Farming, the specialist organisation that helped ex-service personnel find employment in the agricultural and horticultural industries, announced this week that they are to cease operations.

Jeremy Gibbs speaking at the 2022 Service Dealer Conference

The organisation, whose founder Jeremy Gibbs addressed dealer delegates at the 2022 Service Dealer Conference, confirmed the news via LinkedIN on Tuesday this week (July 2nd 2024).

In a statement the organisation said, "It’s with a heavy heart that after 5 years the time has come to close things down for the foreseeable future of Forces Farming and Forces into Agriculture CIC.

"There have been many service leavers, veterans and their families who have moved into the rural sector through the work and support we provided. The most rewarding part of this journey is knowing that lives have been changed for the better and we have given people ability to do something meaningful and call it work."

The statement continued, "Looking back at the past 5 years, the agricultural industry has a much bigger focus on Armed Forces Engagement. Many organisations now have dedicated programmes for those who have served and are looking to enter the industry. We like to think we had a hand in this shift of focus.

"Donations into Forces into Agriculture CIC have supported wounded, injured and sick personnel into new careers and new lives. This was one of the ultimate goals from the start; deliver support into meaningful jobs and careers while providing a purpose."

Forces Farming confirmed that anyone currently being supported will be contacted and transferred to other contacts and organisations.