Farming is going through the greatest change to its support schemes in a generation.
Defra has just issued more information about the 102 options that will be available through its Sustainable Farming Incentive this summer and the next steps with Countryside Stewardship. This comes at a time when farmers are struggling with the impact of the wet weather and the cuts to the Basic Payment Scheme.
Thanks to funding from Westmorland and Furness Council and the Rural England Prosperity Fund, Cumbria Business Growth Hub is offering farm businesses the chance to apply for a voucher worth up to £500 towards the cost of advice on any aspect of the farm business including how to apply for environmental schemes.
The £500 can be used with an adviser of the farm business’ choice with a simple application and claims process.
Lesley Robinson, head of business Support with Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, said: “We’ve been given funding to approve 250 voucher applications and there are just over 200 still available to be used by the end of December.
“Any eligible business in the old Eden and South Lakeland District Council areas is welcome to apply and activity isn’t limited so covers support such as working with an accountant, solicitor, marketing consultant, website designer, planner, architect, insurer and of course an agricultural consultant. We’d hate for anyone to miss out so get in touch today to start the application process.”
Veronica Waller, of the Farmer Network, a delivery partner working with Cumbria Business Growth Hub, said: “Farmers are grappling with all of the new information about environmental schemes and we recommend they make use of this £500 advice voucher to get help understanding what is relevant to their situation.
“The voucher can also be used for other advice relating to the farm business.”
To request an application and associated paperwork email info@cumbriagrowthhub.co.uk or call 0844 257 8450.
