Funding to Improve Animal Health and Welfare of Cattle, Pigs and Sheep

Funding to improve the health and welfare of cattle, pigs and sheep is part of the Animal Health and Welfare Pathway delivered by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and the Rural Payments Agency (RPA). The scheme provides funding for livestock farmers to work with a vet to identify and address animal health and welfare issues affecting cattle, sheep and pigs.

Funding can be used for veterinary-led health and welfare reviews, disease testing, and endemic disease follow-up activities. Reviews are designed to help farmers improve livestock health, welfare and productivity through tailored veterinary advice and evidence-based management improvements.

Applicants must apply for an Improve Animal Health and Welfare (IAHW) agreement before carrying out any funded review or follow-up activity. Eligible farms must be based in England and meet minimum livestock number requirements. Funding is available at fixed payment rates depending on livestock species and the type of review undertaken.

Applications are made through the Rural Payments Agency and the scheme currently operates on an ongoing basis, subject to Government funding availability and scheme rules.

To find out more and apply visit the GOV.UK website.