The Young Fishermen Network (YFN) has unveiled its first-ever manifesto at the World Food Forum in Rome, marking World Food Day with a call to action for the UK Government to back the next generation of fishermen. The YFN Manifesto sets out four key pillars calling for government support:
- Step on Board – Provide accessible training opportunities for the next generation
- Learn the Ropes – Knowledge transfer from experienced fishermen to new entrants
- Help to Buy – Creation of a Help to Buy boat, licence, and quota scheme
- Space to Fish – Create opportunities for all with improved management of inshore waters
The Young Fishermen Network is a UK-based organisation working to recruit, retain, and support the next generation of fishermen. Hosted by the Cornish Fish Producers Organisation. Funded by The Fishmongers Company, The Seafarer’s Charity and Ocean Fish.
YFN Representative, Will Jaycock, said: “Fishermen are a vital part of our coastal communities, for every one of us at sea in Cornwall, there are 15 more jobs across the supply chain. Our manifesto aims to drive change to ensure fishing remains a viable and inspiring career for young people, and we can keep putting healthy food on the table. With more new entrants recruited, supported by accessible training and help-to-buy schemes, young fishermen could play an even greater role in our food security.”
Launched in 2023, the Young Fishermen Network UK is an initiative led by young commercial fishermen to promote fishing as a viable career and amplify the voices of the next generation.
YFN Coordinator, Matilda Phillips, said: “Young fishermen play a critical role in global food security. Ten of our Cornwall YFN members accounted for 18% of Cornwall’s total fish landings in 2023. The message from us is simple: invest in young fishermen, invest in food security. Launching the manifesto on the world stage, we want to catch the attention of key decision makers in the UK and ensure we get some proper commitment and support.”
The World Food Forum (WFF) flagship event is a global platform driving action to transform food systems through youth, science, innovation, and investment. Hosted at the headquarters of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations in Rome, the 2025 event aligns with World Food Day on 16th October.
