A proposed merger between two of leading farming and food educational charities, Linking Environment And Farming (LEAF) and FACE (Farming & Countryside Education), has been announced.
The two hope to increase their impact on improving education and understanding of farming, food and the environment through the merger, which, if approved, would take place in the summer.
LEAF chief executive Caroline Drummond said it had never been more important to state the case for British agriculture. 'The potential merger offers a real opportunity for our two organisations to work together even more effectively and efficiently to deliver multiple benefits to our partners and stakeholders,' she said. FACE chief executive Dan Corlett said the expanded organisation would offer efficiencies, enhanced engagement and greater opportunities for educating and engaging the public.
Both organisations have charitable status, have worked on projects together such as Countryside Classroom and LEAF's Open Farm School Days and share many common goals.
LEAF and FACE said they were working closely together to ensure that the proposed merger meets all necessary legal requirements and complies with all the required procedures and recommendations set out by the Charity Commission.
It is currently anticipated that subject to contract, due diligence and the proposed merger meeting all the necessary legal requirements, that the agreement will be signed during the summer of 2017.
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