Farmers’ Payouts Kick-Off: Basic Payment Scheme & Stewardship Claims Now Open!
Basic Payment Scheme: Early Cash Boost Continues
The Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) application window swings wide open today, March 14. Last year’s new summer advance payments for farmers are back, with about 50% of total payments landing from August 2023. Balance payments will follow from December as usual.
Remember, Direct Payments through BPS are on the way out by 2027, replaced by new delinked payments based on your 2020-2022 averages. But to qualify for these from 2024 to 2027, farmers must claim and be eligible this year.
Good news on red tape: after 2023, cross compliance rules end for these payments. That said, vital environmental and animal welfare laws remain intact. The government promises a fair approach, focusing on warnings and chances to fix issues before slapping penalties.
Countryside & Environmental Stewardship Made Simpler
For those claiming under Countryside Stewardship (CS) and Environmental Stewardship (ES), the Rural Payments Agency (RPA) has introduced a handy new annual declaration. If your details haven’t changed, you can now submit a simple automated claim — no fiddly forms needed.
But beware: all farmers must submit a claim or annual declaration for CS and ES to get paid for 2023 work.
RPA Chief Exec Paul Caldwell said:“I know the importance of cashflow to rural businesses at this time. I am pleased we continue to support farmers balancing food production with protecting nature. I urge all eligible farmers to apply now — don’t miss out.”
£2.4 Billion Boost to UK Farming Sector
The government’s pumping a whopping £2.4 billion a year into farming until 2024. Funds from reduced BPS payments are being funnelled into new Environmental Land Management schemes and grants to support green farming.
In January, officials laid out plans to expand the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) and ramp up Countryside Stewardship payment rates. Plus, a fresh SFI Management Payment of up to £1,000 aims to ease farmers’ costs.
With six new SFI standards opening for applications this summer and more on the horizon, these schemes are designed to suit all types of farmers — delivering cash and helping nature thrive.
