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Helping Rural Businesses Thrive |
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The sight of daffodils emerging and lambs in the fields must mean spring is on its way.
Another busy month coming up for events, if you can find a few hours to get off farm why not invest them at one of these. There’s a movie night, a social media workshop for rural businesses and We Are Farming Minds socials - so something for everyone!
Defra have announced several funding opportunities we can expect to reopen later this year, more details on these below, but no sight of any movement from the Treasury on the proposed changes to Inheritance Tax. We will learn more when the Spring Budget is published on the 26th March - which happens to also be the same date as our next succession planning workshop so we hope to see you there! |
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| WAFM Women What Farm
Wed 5th March
12pm to 6pm
The Shell Store, Canary Drive, Skylon Park, Hereford, HR2 6SR
More information click here |
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| | Nutrient Management on Farm : Flood Plain Management & Adding Value to Grazing through Direct Selling
Special Guest Ed Dickson of Wild by Nature
Tues 11th March
10:30am to 1pm
Fawley Court Farm, Fawley HR1 4SP
Click here for more info & to book |
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| | | Nutrient Management on Farm : Managing Nutrients through Total Mixed Ration (TMR)
Thurs 13th March
10:30am to 1pm
Ballingham Court, Ballingham HR2 6NH
Click here for more info & to book |
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| Herefordshire Food Alliance presents Six inches of Soil
Fri 14th March
6pm to 9pm
Bad Harvest Barn, Blakemere HR2 9PX
More information click here |
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| | | Farm for the Future : Succession Planning on the Family Farm
Wed 26th March
10:30am to 1:30pm
HFYFC, Beech Business Park, Tillington Road, Hereford HR4 9QJ
Click here for more info & to book |
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With Class Q permitted development rights changing in May 2025, now is the time to act if you wish to convert a larger agricultural building. |
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DEFRA - Capital Grants Scheme Update for 2025/26
DEFRA have announced that the 4,040 applications that were put on hold in November 2024 will now be processed. If you submitted an application, there’s no need to take any action – it will be processed, and if approved, you’ll receive an agreement to complete your project. For those who haven’t applied yet, it is advised for you to submit an application once the improved scheme reopens later this year through the Rural Payments service. Guidance will be available once the scheme reopens on GOV.UK About the Capital Grants Scheme
The scheme helps farmers and land managers fund environmental projects such as tree planting, habitat restoration, and improvements to air and water quality. These projects provide long-term benefits, including reducing pollution and improving the environment. Improvements to the Scheme
To ensure fairness and manage high demand, spending caps have been introduced: - £25,000 for water, air, and flood management projects
- £35,000 for boundaries, trees, and orchards
These caps do not apply to capital plans, and applicants can apply in more than one category, but only one application per year is allowed per Single Business Identifier (SBI). The application window will now be open year-round to ensure a fair process and sustainability. |
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Delinked Payments 2025 : Key Changes
Defra has announced reductions to delinked payments for 2025 as part of the shift to more targeted investment in sustainable farming and nature.
Payment Reductions for 2025
Your payment will be based on your reference amount, minus reductions:
- £30,000 or less – 76% reduction
- Amounts above £30,000 – 100% reduction
You can use the delinked payments calculator to estimate your 2025 payment.
Payment Timing
Delinked payments will be made as a single payment from 1 August 2025, continuing into 2026 and 2027.
For more details, click here |
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New Funding Opportunities for Farmers AnnouncedSeveral new funding schemes are going to be available to support innovation and sustainability in farming: Farming Equipment and Technology Fund (FETF)
FETF provides grants of £1,000 to £25,000 for equipment, technology, and infrastructure to improve productivity, slurry management, and animal health. This spring, £30 million will be available for productivity and slurry projects, and £16.7 million for animal health. We’ll update you when applications open. Farming Innovation Programme (FIP)
FIP supports innovative farming methods and technologies through competitions, including: - Precision Breeding (up to £12.5 million) for genetic technology.
- Net Zero Farming (up to £12.5 million) to support sustainable farming.
- Industry-led Competitions (up to £17.6 million) for various R&D stages.
FIP has already invested £51.8 million, funding projects like solar panels for greenhouses and methane-reducing cattle feed. We'll share more when application details are available. Accelerating Development of Practices and Technologies Fund (ADOPT)
Opening in Spring 2025, ADOPT will provide grants of £50,000 to £100,000 for farmer-led innovation projects. A dedicated Support Hub, led by RSK ADAS, will help with applications. Up to £63 million will be available across FIP and ADOPT starting in 2025/26. |
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Funding Now Available for Livestock Health and Welfare Reviews
From 26th February 2025, livestock farmers can apply for funding to support both the Animal Health and Welfare Review and the endemic disease follow-up for multiple species.
The Animal Health and Welfare Review includes disease testing for conditions such as Bovine Viral Diarrhoea (BVD) in cattle, Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) in pigs, and worming resistance in sheep. Vets will also assess biosecurity and provide tailored advice to improve animal health, welfare, and productivity.
The endemic disease follow-up, which is the second phase of the review, offers further testing and advice based on the review's findings.
Farmers can access up to three review and follow-up visits per year from 2024 to 2027, ensuring continuous support as farm management challenges evolve.
For more details on how to apply, click here. |
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| | Funding and Grants for Agroforestry
Now is the perfect time to explore the potential benefits of agroforestry for your farming operation. With more support available than ever before for implementing and managing agroforestry practices, there are numerous opportunities to improve the sustainability and productivity of your land. From increasing tree densities to integrating trees into your fields, there are a variety of actions you can take to incorporate agroforestry into your farming enterprise. If you’re considering applying for an in-field agroforestry offer, here are five tips to help you successfully navigate the process and harness the positive impacts of incorporating trees into your farm.
- Check whether you are in a sensitive area for tree planting
- Make use of the agroforestry plan capital item (PA4)
- Consider tree species suitability
- Consider whether you require an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
- Choose the right tree guard.
For more information, and to learn how to apply please click here
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Avian influenza - Confirmed near Fownhope, North Herefordshire
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Update on Avian Influenza in Herefordshire On February 25, 2025, highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was confirmed in additional captive birds at a premises near Fownhope, North Herefordshire (AIV 2025/23). As a result, a 3km monitoring zone has been established around the affected premises. Unfortunately, the infected birds will be humanely culled to prevent further spread. In response to the ongoing risk, the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ), which requires strict housing measures for poultry and captive birds, has been extended. It now includes Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Cheshire, Merseyside, and Lancashire, alongside other areas such as East Riding of Yorkshire, City of Kingston Upon Hull, Lincolnshire, Norfolk, Suffolk, Shropshire, York, and North Yorkshire. To stay informed on the latest developments, you can access the DEFRA interactive map here: interactive map Reporting Suspected Bird Flu
If you suspect avian influenza in poultry or other captive birds, it’s crucial to report it immediately. - England: Call 03000 200 301
- Wales: Call 03003 038 268
For the latest updates and guidance from DEFRA, please click here please click here.
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Wyescapes Update & Survey ExtensionThe Wyescapes Landscape Recovery project has just received approval from Defra enabling it to expand to 5125 hectares. Thanks to strong support from local farmers, the project’s ambition of restoring the river corridors of the Wye and Lugg has been strengthened with an additional 23% land joining the scheme since its launch in 2024. Crucially, this now includes 80 kilometres of riverbank. With more and more farms wanting to participate we are collating a waiting list which already has a further 2000 hectares registered. We are working to secure funding to enable that land to go through the same process of ecological baselining and land management planning. If you have land in the project area but are not yet involved and would like to be, please get in touch with wyescapes@herefordshireruralhub.co.uk Wyescapes is now building collaboration across 49 landholdings. These farmers and land managers seek to develop alternative business models and income streams for their floodplain land, boost biodiversity through a mosaic of habitats, improve river health, naturally reduce the impact of floods and drought, whilst still sustainably producing high quality food. The project will also explore opportunities to enhance public access to parts of the project land. We currently have a survey open to gather insights from those who live, work in and enjoy the project area along the rivers between Leominster and Symonds Yat.
Please have your say and share your views on the survey by Monday 24th March, see below for link. Wyescapes is currently in a development phase funded by Defra and led by Herefordshire Rural Hub, working with project partners Wye and Usk Foundation, Herefordshire Meadows, and Herefordshire Wildlife Trust.
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Free support available from the Hub to complete a Whole Farm Nutrient Balance
Ever read the headlines about nutrient overload of the Wye and wondered how it relates to your farm? If you bring any livestock feed, fertiliser or manures on to your holding, completing a Nutrient Balance could provide you with those answers.
The Hub team can provide free confidential 1:1 support to undertake a nutrient balance calculation for your business, identify opportunities to reduce your nutrient load and answer any questions you might have. |
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Catchment Sensitive Farming (CSF) Update in Herefordshire |
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Catchment Sensitive Farming (CSF) Support
CSF have five officers working across Herefordshire: Alice Probert and Rob Edwards cover the Arrow, Lugg, and Frome catchments, Nick Hinchliffe and Tom Lancashire cover the Wye, and Amy Stephens handles the Leadon.
CSF offers free, confidential advice to help you meet regulations and improve farm efficiency through better nutrient, manure, and soil management. Officers also assist with government schemes like SFI and the upcoming Higher Tier.
Capital Grant Scheme Update
The Capital Grant Scheme will reopen this summer after a pause. Some items require CSF approval, so if you’re planning to apply, arrange a visit soon. The scheme will provide up to £25,000 for water, air, and flood management projects, and £35,000 for boundary and tree works.
Book Your CSF Visit
To request support, email Part 1 of the Request_for_CSF_support_form to csf.severn@naturalengland.org.uk. |
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Farming with Nature
Herefordshire Wildlife Trust have a small expert team that can provide advice and support on:
- Land Management
- Natural Asset Reviews & Farm Plans
- ELM Advice and Applications
- Peer to Peer Knowledge Exchange
- Conservation Project Management
- Wildlife and Survey Monitoring
- Natural Flood Management
- Watercourses
- Pond Creation and Management
- Environmental Regulation Compliance
- Woodland management.
To find out more click here. |
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| | Species-Rich Grassland: Advisory Services from Herefordshire Meadows
Herefordshire Meadows offer several charged services for landowners:
- Advice & guidance regarding management or restoration of species-rich grassland.
- Grassland assessment for suitability of SFI options for livestock, soil health, flood and drought resilience and biodiversity.
- Grassland surveys e.g. assessing suitability for GRH6 option.
- Guidance regarding permanent grassland, floodplain and cultivated land.
Visit the website to find out more, including current availability of funding for capital works or other free services. |
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The Wye & Usk Foundation delivering the WVNL Advice ProjectThe Wye & Usk Foundation, through the Wye Valley National Landscapes Advice Project,
are currently able to offer free SFI Advice to farmers with land within the AONB. For further information please contact Lucinda Lewis, Senior Catchment Advisor. |
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The Jack Hughes Fund supports the cost of training for members of Herefordshire’s farming community.
“The only thing worse than training your employees and having them leave is not training them and having them stay” Henry Ford |
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Who was Jack Hughes?
Jack Hughes was the late founder of the Herefordshire Proficiency Test Committee (HPTC). Jack Hughes did much to ensure that training was available to the county’s farming community, particularly in relation to young farmers.
How much funding can I claim?
The Jack Hughes Fund will fund 70% of the cost of training up to a maximum of £200.
Are there any limitations?
Applicants must live in Herefordshire. Funding is limited to two applications per annum from a family farming business. Applicants must be over 18 years. Applications must be received and approved before you attend your course.
How do I apply?
The Jack Hughes Fund is managed by the Herefordshire Community Foundation for an application form you need to go to their website: Click Here |
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Apprenticeships, Training &
Short Courses availableRural Apprenticeships available, based at Holme Lacy campus include: - Animal care & welfare
- Farm Worker
- Forestry & arboriculture
- Welding
- Farriery
For more details click here or for enquiries click here.Training & short courses available throughout the year for: - Felling & processing trees
- Safe use of pesticides
- Tractor Driving
- Welding, metal work & fabrication
- Blacksmithing
- Chainsaw maintenance
For full course details click here or for enquiries click here. |
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| | Agriculture Health and Safety:
How to Meet Your Legal Responsibilities (E-Learning)
If you control or manage a farm, you are legally responsible for your safety and that of your employees, contractors, visitors, and anyone affected by your work.
The course consists of 8 modules, covering topics such as falls from height, falling objects, livestock, vehicles, children, electricity, and drowning and asphyxiation.
This will help farmers understand the legal responsibilities for their safety and that of their employees, contractors, visitors, and anyone affected by their work. It will also help farmers identify and manage safety risks.
The E-Learning course consists of training only and a Certificate of Attendance will be available to download and print upon successful completion.
Enrol on this FREE E-learning course click here. |
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NFU Mutual Hereford North & Borders
Business Administration Apprentice |
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A brief overview of the role: |
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| | Kate Speke-Adams -
Hub Managing Director
For details about our projects & opportunities to work with us click here. |
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| | | | Sarah Starkey -
Hub Farm Resilience Project Manager
For info about any of our resilience projects click here. |
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| | Victoria Stanton-Humphreys -
Hub Finance Officer
For queries about finance & invoicing
click here. |
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| | | | Livy Braid -
Hub Farm Resilience Project Coordinator
For info about our Farm for the Future resilience project with Royal Countryside Fund click here. |
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| | Rhia Bell -
Hub Administrator
For info about our events, newsletter & partnerships with Hereford Grassland
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| | | | Dan Smith -
Hub Farm Facilitator
For advice & support on nutrient management, grassland management or to share potential event topics click here. |
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| | Max Eckert -
Hub Wyescapes Programme Manager
For information about our Wyescapes Landscape Recovery project click here. |
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| | | | Jennie Hermolle -
Hub Wyescapes Engagement & Communications Manager
For information about our Wyescapes Landscape Recovery project click here |
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To advertise events, services, training and job opportunities with us click here.
Deadline for print copy 24th of each month. |
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| | We're proud to be part of the
Royal Countryside Fund's
Farm Support Group Initiative |
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Disclaimer The Herefordshire Rural Hub accepts no liability for any direct, indirect or consequential loss arising from any action taken in reliance on the information contained. |
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Herefordshire Rural Hub,
Agriculture House, Beech Business Park,
Tillington Road, Hereford
HR4 9QJ
Tel: 01432 268428
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