YFC members who use ATVs are being encouraged to apply for a fully funded, accredited training course through a new nationwide bursary launched by the Farm Safety Foundation (Yellow Wellies) during Farm Safety Week.
There are 100 fully-funded industry accredited courses up for grabs for anyone working in agriculture or studying at a land-based college or university in the UK. Delivered in partnership with Lantra, this initiative is designed to upskill agricultural workers and hopefully reduce the number of serious incidents involving ATVs on our farms.
ATVs are widely used in farming, but according to the latest HSE statistics, they were the leading cause of work-related fatalities in agriculture, forestry and fishing in 2024/25, with seven fatalities, including two children.
In the past five years, 21 lives have been lost in ATV-related incidents – a stark reminder of the importance of training and helmet use.
This bursary offers a real opportunity to access professional, life-saving training without the barrier of cost.
Whether you're new to ATV use or looking to refresh your skills, the course covers everything from pre-ride checks to tackling challenging terrain safely.
Stephanie Berkeley, Manager of the Farm Safety Foundation, said: “We know that ATVs are essential tools on many farms, but they can also be incredibly dangerous when used without proper training. By launching this bursary, we’re removing one of the key barriers - cost - and giving anyone working on farms the opportunity to learn how to use these machines safely and confidently.
"We’re doing this in memory of those who have tragically lost their lives in ATV incidents, for the safety of today’s farmers and for the generations who will follow in their footsteps.”
Successful applicants will be paired with the nearest available Lantra training provider to complete their accredited course – and every participant will also receive a free Logic helmet, reinforcing the key messages of the RSABI #UseYourHead campaign.
Clegg Bamber MBE, Head of Communications at Lantra, said: “ATVs are really versatile vehicles and serve many purposes on farms across the UK. At Lantra, we hear, sadly, all too often of people suffering serious injuries, and sometimes fatalities, due to riding on an ATV.
"Lantra are proud to partner with the Farm Safety Foundation on this newly announced bursary scheme as developing people’s knowledge and skills will ensure that people remain safe when using ATVs across farms, reducing serious injuries and fatalities from occurring.”
The initiative is part of Yellow Wellies’ wider mission to reduce life-changing and life-ending injuries on farms through education and behavioural change. It also aligns with NFYFC’s ongoing support for raising awareness of farm safety among young people in agriculture.
Many YFCs raise money for The Farm Safety Foundation and the bursaries have been funded by donations made to the charity.
"The bursary has been made possible thanks to the generosity of those who fundraise and donate to us," said Stephanie. "It’s a powerful reminder that when you give to us, we give back. Every contribution helps fund life-saving education, practical training, and initiatives like this that are changing the culture of safety on UK farms.”
Apply now for your free ATV training place.
