Recent Defra research shows that the North has the lowest engagement with agricultural schemes across the country – meaning farmers are potentially missing out on funding options.

The new government has been elected midway through the agricultural transition in England – 2024 Basic Payment Scheme receipts will be at least 50 per cent of the pre-cut 2020 rates, and new Environmental Land Management (ELM) schemes are up and running.

The government has said it will continue to roll out and improve the Environmental Land Management schemes, including the Sustainable Farming Incentive expanded offer.

Throughout the autumn and winter this year, the CLA is running agricultural transition roadshows in England, four of which are in the North. Farmers and landowners do not need to be CLA members to attend these meetings, however, registration is required.

During these two-hour sessions, attendees will hear from: 

  • CLA experts, who will provide an overview of the key available funding opportunities, and discuss what they could mean;
  • Representatives from NIAB (Future Farming Resilience Fund case studies, advice and support);
  • Representatives from Defra (Catchment Sensitive Farming & Rural Payments Agency) as well as the Forestry Commission who will provide brief updates.

These events are an opportunity to raise specific questions with experts from the above.

The sessions are:

  • Tuesday, October 29: 9am to 11.30am Driffield RUFC Clubhouse; and 2pm to 4.30pm, Scotch Corner Hotel.
  • Wednesday, October 30: 9am to 11.30am, at Hexham Auction Mart; and 2pm to 4.30pm, Westmorland Showground.

To register for these events, visit the CLA’s website at www.cla.org.uk/events. Tickets cost £12.

Members and non-members requiring support with their booking can contact the CLA North office on 01748 907070.