Providing Feedback on the Animal Health and Welfare Equipment and Technology Grant

The government's Animal Health and Welfare Pathway has moved forward with the introduction of the Animal Health and Welfare Equipment and Technology grant. The grant aims to enhance livestock health and welfare by offering financial support for specific items on a predefined list. In this guide, we will explain how you can get involved and provide valuable feedback to shape the future of this grant program.

Who Can Participate

If you are a farmer, supplier, industry consultant, or manufacturer, Defra want to hear from you to gain comprehensive insights.

Areas of Feedback

a. Specifications for Items on the List

Each item on the list has specific requirements that must be met to qualify for funding. For instance, it may stipulate minimum water tank capacity or tank material. Clear specifications are crucial to ensure applicants understand which equipment or technology qualifies for support. It also enables Defra to target high-quality items that genuinely contribute to the health and welfare of livestock.

Examples of how specifications can be influential include insulated farrowing arks for pigs with additional ventilation, providing optimal protection to sows and their piglets against extreme temperatures. If you believe any aspect of the specifications should be modified, share your thoughts through the survey.

b. Sector Eligibility
The list of eligible items currently includes equipment available to all sectors and some exclusively for specific sectors. However, there might be instances where certain items could benefit farmers from other sectors as well. Your feedback can help Defra identify items that have potential cross-sector applications.

How to Participate

To share your valuable opinions, participate in Defra's survey, which will be open until 7 August. The survey will provide you with the opportunity to express your views on the grant's specifications and sector eligibility.

Importance of Regular Evaluations

Periodic evaluations are vital in ensuring the effectiveness of the grant program. Your input will help Defra improve the grant's impact and ensure it aligns with the industry's evolving needs.