Animal Health & Welfare Review (Spring 2022) – Emily Wynder (Sherborne)

Although DEFRA are very slow at releasing information about their upcoming grants and schemes, there has some been guidance detailing the Spring 2022 Animal Health & Welfare Review.

Who? this grant will initially be aimed at commercial cattle, pig and sheep farmers who are currently eligible to claim the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS)

What? the Animal Health & Welfare Review will fund a yearly vet visit on farm for completion of health and welfare reviews and diagnostic testing

Why? the review will provide farmers with an improved understanding of health and welfare priorities on their farms.  Farmers will be able to nominate their own vets to carry out diagnostic testing, with results being used to provide bespoke advice on management and making improvements.  The main focus of these vet visits is to look at biosecurity, sustainable use of antimicrobials, controlling/prevention/eradication of endemic diseases and investment approaches.

When? The application window is proposed to open in Spring 2022

Further info: it has been discussed that further grants will be available to those who complete the first step, with a possible payment by results programme which will reward farmers for achieving higher welfare outcomes with support for ongoing costs involved in delivery.

For more Information on the Animal Health and Welfare Review, contact your Vet.  For information on forthcoming grants, contact Emily at emilywynder@fcgagric.com or your local FCG Office.