SCOTTISH FARMERS and crofters are being left behind by the digital era, as they struggle with internet connections that the vast majority describe as ‘not fit for current or future needs’.

To get a clearer idea of the mobile and broadband issues affecting the sector, NFU Scotland recently conducted its first connectivity survey, and between November 2020 and January this year, received nearly 400 responses on the subject.

No less than with 77% of respondents said that their internet connection was below par, with many describing this as an 'obstacle to innovation', limiting their adoption of new ways of working and technology, and acting as a barrier to diversifying their businesses.

Considering mobile connections, poor signal remains a challenge, with 48% of respondents describing the quality of their mobile signal in their home/office as ‘poor’ or ‘very poor’, while 42% said they had been obliged to adopt special measures to overcome weak signal, for example, using shortwave radio to keep in contact with staff or family for health and safety reasons.

Looking at the added challenge of the Covid-19 pandemic, poor connectivity has been limiting businesses' ability to adapt to the greater reliance on virtual communication, leading to even greater feelings of isolation. In the survey, poor internet connections were cited as a barrier to attending learning opportunities such as webinars where physical meetings had been prevented.

NFU Scotland vice-president Robin Traquair said: “The pandemic has placed even more pressure on an inequitable landscape. Our members have reported huge issues with rural broadband and mobile connectivity, and it is vital to address this problem to unlock the potential in our countryside.

“Our members highlight that a better connection would have hugely positive benefits on their businesses; from significant efficiency gains, to improved market access and growth, alongside reduced emotional burden. The potential for stemming rural depopulation, diversification opportunities, and promoting greater investment into rural enterprises are also well understood.

“However, the digital divide continues to grow. Many of our members are the hardest to reach and face the greatest financial burdens to becoming connected. This is not a future problem, it is negatively impacting our farming and crofting communities and businesses now, and must be addressed urgently," he stressed.