The Covid-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of good digital connectivity.  Many have relied on internet access to keep connected with family, friends and to keep their business running. Children and young people are being educated via on-line resources and many services, such as banking and mental health support, are accessible remotely. Slow and unreliable broadband can servery impact this ability to engage virtually. 

In light of this, NFU Cymru has joined with the National Federation of Women’s Institutes-Wales, Wales YFC, FUW and the CLA to carry out a survey focused on rural connectivity. The results will help the organisations further understand the broadband and mobile connectivity issues faced by their members as well as the wider picture of connectivity in rural Wales.

NFU Cymru President John Davies said “More must be done to ensure the connectivity divide between urban and rural communities is decreased. It is unacceptable that many members are unable to secure reliable connectivity links and it is holding farmers back. Welsh farmers need as many tools as possible to maintain business resilience, and access to digital connectivity is paramount if we are to compete on the global market and to ensure the success of a future farming policy.

“Connectivity is also vital for farm health and safety. With farmers often working long hours alone in isolated locations it is essential that farmers have access to reliable mobile coverage to call for help. There is also a range of online support available for the farming community, from mental health and wellbeing support to business advice. It is crucial that those who need this support can access it. I encourage members to take the time to complete this short survey and help us better understand the connectivity issues that they face.”

Mair Stephens, Chair of the National Federation of Women’s Institutes-Wales, who are coordinating the survey commented “We are delighted to be working with NFU Cymru and others to raise the importance of rural communities being able to access fast and reliable broadband.  Over the last year, we have heard from members who have experienced difficulties engaging online due to poor broadband connections and hope that this survey will provide us with a clearer picture of the situation across Wales.“

The short, bilingual survey is anonymous and is open to anyone 16 and over. The survey can be accessed below and closes on Thursday, 31 March 2021.