ICAEW South West: Farming and rural insight group | 2026

Event Information

Designed specifically for members managing or supporting businesses within the agricultural sector, this virtual insight group provides a dedicated forum to navigate the unique challenges of the rural economy. These sessions offer a supportive space to explore industry-specific developments—from partnership pitfalls and profitability to legislative updates—while exchanging practical, peer-to-peer insights with fellow professionals across the South West.

Who Should Attend?

This group is ideally suited for:

• Agricultural practitioners | Accountants and tax advisors supporting farming clients with complex estates and diversified income streams.

• Industry finance leaders | Finance Directors and senior finance professionals working within businesses operating in and supporting the rural sector.

• Strategic advisors | Professionals looking to stay informed on the latest legislative developments and economic trends impacting South West agriculture.

Why You Should Participate

Operating within the rural economy presents a unique set of challenges. These sessions provide a vital sounding board for those who may otherwise feel isolated in their professional roles.

• Expert guidance | The sessions are chaired by industry specialists, including Kate Bell (Farms & Estates Partner at Albert Goodman) and Liam Downing (Haines Watts), providing a blend of technical and commercial expertise.

• Confidential peer exchange | Share your own knowledge and seek objective opinions from experienced peers in a supportive, non-judgemental environment.

• Sector intelligence | Stay ahead of industry-specific trends, from the transition to new subsidy regimes to the impact of the wider economy on farm profitability.

• Shape the agenda | This is your group. Participants are encouraged to bring their own ideas and concerns to the table to help set topics for future discussion.

Discussion Topics

While there is no fixed agenda, discussions are dynamic and respond to current member priorities. Past topics have included:

• Partnership pitfalls | Navigating the specific risks associated with family-run agricultural businesses.

• Agricultural profitability | Strategies for maintaining financial resilience during periods of economic transition.

• Legislative updates | High-level briefings on developments from bodies such as the Country Land and Business Association (CLA).