What safeguards will the Welsh Government put in place to ensure that farmers are not encouraged to take on additional debt to meet expectations linked to the Sustainable Farming Scheme?
The Sustainable Farming Scheme is designed to be practical, proportionate and accessible for farm businesses across Wales, informed by extensive engagement with farming unions and other stakeholders. The Universal Payment recognises the costs of participation, with the Universal Baseline Payment reflecting costs incurred and income foregone, alongside a Social Value Payment recognising wider public benefits. The Scheme also broadens support beyond the Basic Payment Scheme by including additional eligible habitat and woodland areas. Farming Connect will provide advice and guidance to support the delivery of Scheme actions and help farmers make informed business decisions.