The Importance of Attracting New Talent into Hedge Laying: Building Sustainable Careers with Current Subsidies

In the picturesque countryside of Newark, Russell from DeadWood is making a significant impact in the field of traditional hedgerow management.

By training apprentices through collaborations with CPRE Hampshire, he is not only scaling his business but also fostering a new generation of skilled hedge layers. This initiative is crucial for the sustainability of this traditional craft, which is vital for maintaining and restoring the country’s rural landscapes.

Training the Next Generation

Russell’s collaboration with CPRE Hampshire and his dedication to train apprentices serve as a model for how passion and financial support can come together to create a thriving, sustainable green career – for both apprentice and teacher.

After seeing a post on social media, Russell reached out to Ellie, our hedgerow officer, to learn more about the hedge laying apprenticeship program. With over five years of professional experience in hedge laying, he was eager to give back by sharing his skills – supporting others to learn about hedge-laying, planting and coppice management.

“Professionally, it’s been a joy to invest in individuals eager to learn about hedgerow management. Thanks to schemes like CPRE’s apprenticeship program, we’re helping more people flourish and build successful careers. On a personal level, this work has enabled people to build a life, buy a car, and invest in themselves. It’s incredibly rewarding, and I hope we’ll continue working together for as long as possible.”

Having an apprentice has brought Russell an immense sense of satisfaction, he’s now been able to take them on full-time, take on more clients and scale his business. In addition with more people entering the field, he has built a network of support which he hopes will benefit the country’s hedgerows for generations to come.

The Role of Subsidies in Sustainable Careers

In addition, current subsidies play a pivotal role in transforming hedge laying from a mere hobby into a viable career option. Hedge layers can act as agents, coordinating efforts, providing advice on efficient hedgerow management, assisting with grant applications, and ultimately empowering people to enhance the ecological value of their hedgerows.

Grants such as CPRE Hampshire’s Community Hedge Fund, alongside Countryside Stewardship, provide financial incentives for farmers, foresters, and land managers to protect and improve the environment. This includes the financial support necessary for landowners to restore their hedgerows, create habitats where nature can thrive and mitigate the impact of climate change. This support ensures that preserving the land doesn’t become an additional financial burden or pressure for those dedicated to its care.

If you’re a landowner or manager interested in applying for Countryside Stewardship grants, you can find more information and check your eligibility on the GOV.UK website or contact DeadWood for advice and guidance.

Russell’s experience highlights the benefits of these subsidies. With the financial backing, he has been able to expand his business, attract more clients, and support additional staff members – including one of CPRE’s Hampshire Hedgerow Apprentices. This growth not only benefits his business but also contributes to the broader goal of restoring Britain’s hedgerows.

The Perfect Day in Hedge Laying

For Russell, the perfect day involves working in the crisp, cool air just above freezing, with the sun on his back and a coffee in hand. This idyllic setting is where he finds joy and fulfillment in his work. Cutting a hedge back to an inch of its life and watching it flourish again. It’s a reminder of the simple pleasures that come with working in nature and the satisfaction of seeing a well-laid hedge thrive – he wouldn’t change it for the world.

A Call to Action for Landowners

Despite the benefits, Russell is calling on more landowners to take advantage of the available grants. These subsidies can significantly reduce the financial burden on landowners, making it easier for them to invest in hedgerow restoration. By doing so, they contribute to the preservation of the countryside and support the development of sustainable careers in hedge laying.