Following the success of earlier phases of the Future Farming Resilience programme, Devon County Council have received Defra funding to expand the initiative which will now cover Devon, Somerset, Dorset, Cornwall, and the Isles of Scilly.

The aim is to help farmers, land managers and their families understand the changes and adapt to the gradual phasing out of Basic Payments which will end altogether in 2027.

The new Environmental Land Management (ELM) scheme which replaces it, will encourage farmers to focus on sustainable farming practices, encourage biodiversity and create new habitats for wildlife. The Future Farming Resilience programme will play a vital role in making farmers aware of the government support that will be available to replace these payments.

Business Information Point, alongside other local agencies are providing free, tailored one to one advice, workshops, and specialist webinars to help farmers and land managers navigate the changes brought about by the Agricultural Transition:

Transition workshops: Register on a local workshop for an overview (or update) on the changes and what that means for you. We will discuss the changes coming through the transition and look at new funding options, as well as planning strategies for the future. All include refreshments and a free buffet. Dates and locations will be added regularly.

One-to-one support: Access free one-to-one support with an experienced agricultural advisor to talk specifically about your farm business. The advice will be tailored to your needs and include the development of an agreed and documented action plan.

Small group webinars: Attend small group webinars covering topics such as digital skills, succession planning, woodlands, environmental schemes, soil management, diversification, marketing, business planning and grant schemes.

Digital training: Build digital confidence and improve your IT skills to better manage the day-to-day running of your farm business. This could include making applications and requesting payments for Sustainable Farming Incentive agreements, submitting tax online to HMRC, or promoting a diversified farm using social media, Google or paid online advertising.

 

The support is free to any farmer or land manager currently in receipt of BPS payments located in Devon, Somerset, Dorset, Cornwall, or the Isles of Scilly.

For full details of the support and to register on any of the workshops please visit our website - https://businessinfopoint.co.uk/ffr/ or call 0800 592 872.