The government has announced that the number of workers permitted to travel to the UK to pick and package fruit and vegetables will be increased for next year’s harvest.
The Seasonal Workers Pilot, originally launched in 2019, has been extended and expanded with 30,000 visas available for temporary migrants who want to work on UK farms for a period of up to six months.
These workers play a vital role in helping horticulture growers pick and package their produce. In addition, however, the government alongside industry will build on this year’s Pick for Britain campaign and actively promote the recruitment and retention of domestic seasonal workers in 2021. This year Pick for Britain helped to raise the profile of roles in the sector, encouraging UK based workers to take on seasonal jobs during the busy harvest months to help keep the nation fed.
Alongside the Seasonal Workers Pilot, Defra will also lead a review into automation in horticulture, to begin in early 2021. The review will report on ways to increase automation in the sector and meet the government’s aim of reducing the need for migrant seasonal labour.
From next year, farmers in England will be able to harness the power of on-farm technology and innovation through the Farming Investment Fund, which will open for applications next year. This fund will offer farmers grants for equipment, technology and infrastructure, supporting them to invest in their businesses and boost their productivity.
The expansion of the scheme follows a long period of close working with the National Farmers Unions and the Association of Labour Providers.
