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Discussion group etiquette

There is a code of professional conduct which all Discussion Groups should follow, especially when visiting other farm businesses or groups.  Most of which is plain common sense and courteous polite behaviour as you would expect of visitors to your own home.  Don’t ever forget that it is a privilege tobe invited inside another farm business. Please don’t abuse the privilege or the huge benefits of travelling outside your own patch will be lost to all groups.  There are massive opportunities available to everyone in being able to see first hand "Best Practice Farm Businesses” both for visitors who are willing to learn and to the host business to reflect upon constructive comments and questions.

Code of Professional Conduct

Prearrange visits allowing plenty of notice with a clearly understood agenda and reason for visit. Good communication understood by all parties is essential. Please use the standard Discussion Group farm information sheets.

Follow good Bio Security Practice with clean footwear and vehicles. Ensure that disinfectant is available on the farm.
Ensure there is public liability insurance cover for the group on that farm. Make sure the group and individuals within the group are covered for accident and personal injury insurance.

Do not damage or interfere with any people, livestock, or plant and machinery on the farm. Respect the host farm’s house, garden and privacy.

Do not take your children unless this has been discussed with the host family.
Do not attempt to poach staff or allow your staff to get into discussions that might lead to poaching.  Nothing will kill off Discussion Groups quicker than poaching of staff within or between groups.
Be courteous and polite in your questioning and criticism. Make sure that your criticism could never be interpreted as a personal attack.

Don’t expect cfps from the host farm unless this has been pre-arranged and unless the group make their cfps available to the host farm. Doing your cfp can be a passport into other farm businesses but the information must be treated as highly confidential and shared equally between everyone.
All information and discussion must be kept highly confidential and not discussed with third parties outside the Discussion Group.

A "thank you” at the end of the day is very important. The host business has given up time to allow you onto their farm. Remember it is always a privilege to see inside another farm business.  A small gift although not obligatory is often appreciated by the host farm family. Especially if a cup of tea has been prepared for the visitors.
Please notify your Consultant/Facilitator of visits being organised. LIC can help with farm contacts and other groups may wish to join in. 

 
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