Seafish, the industry authority on seafood, has developed a new course to support businesses interested in the roll out of the new Responsible Fishing Scheme (RFS) to the UK fleet.
Aimed at skippers, vessel owners, producer organisations and businesses along the supply chain, the course, which will be available around the UK, will provide guidance on the RFS audit process, equipping attendees with the knowledge to support themselves or others through this process.
Mick Bacon, RFS Fleet Manager, said: “The revised RFS provides the UK with a fantastic opportunity to lead the way in promoting best practice and raising standards in our fishing industry.”
The RFS Support Course aims to provide an insight into the mechanics of the scheme and includes opportunities to complete two of the five elements of the documentation required to be seen by auditors during vessel audits.
Initially designed with skippers in mind, the course is also open to anyone with an interest in the scheme who may be able to support vessels through the application process.
RFS was first launched in 2006 by Seafish to help fishing vessels demonstrate their commitment to a responsibly sourced catch.
It has attracted great support from major retailers, with the likes of Waitrose and M&S joining other leading food service providers in incorporating RFS into their sourcing policies.
Initially focused on vessels supplying the UK market, the scheme will be rolled out internationally over the next few years. For venues and dates of the first set of courses visit www.seafish.co.uk
