REGISTER NOW FOR COMPREHENSIVE FARM REVIEW THROUGH DEFRA FUND

Free Farm Review for Farmers During Agricultural Transition

Farmers planning changes for the Agricultural Transition period can get free advice and support from Ceres Rural. This is available through DEFRA’s Future Farming Resilience Fund, which opens in August.

What Farmers Receive

Farmers who apply successfully to Ceres Rural receive bespoke recommendations in a Farm Resilience Report. The report highlights challenges and opportunities created by the gradual removal of the Basic Payment Scheme.

Each farm’s strategy will vary according to its priorities. However, all recommendations focus on improving business resilience and financial performance so farms thrive.

This applies whether farmers aim to maximise productivity, adopt nature-friendly farming, diversify activities – or combine all three.

How the Reports Work

The reports identify how each farm needs to adapt. They follow four steps:

1. Farm Visit – A consultant visits to understand current practice and challenges, and collect key management and financial data.
2. Data Collection and Processing – The consultant standardises and benchmarks the data.
3. Reporting – Findings are presented in a clear, concise format.
4. Recommendations – Practical, bespoke recommendations are provided.

What the Reports Include

Each report contains ten sections. These cover the impact of BPS reductions and the farm’s current performance. They also include technical reviews of enterprises and opportunities for new ones.

Other sections feature a machinery and labour review, sustainability assessment, and environmental opportunities. Diversification options and grant funding schemes are also considered.

The reports target predominantly arable and mixed farms. They provide independent, practical and forward-looking advice – the hallmark of Ceres Rural.

Why This Matters

A full analysis from an experienced consultant can reveal wider potential for a business. George Badger of Ceres Rural predicts significant environmental, social, political and technological changes for farms in the coming years.

“We are really pleased to work with DEFRA and provide tailored business support at such a key time,” says George.

Act Now – Limited Availability

The service operates on a first-come, first-served basis. DEFRA has agreed funding for a limited number of businesses in the first round.

Farm visits will take place after harvest and through the autumn. “Register your interest as soon as you can,” urges George. “BPS is already reducing, so now is the time to act.”

Register Your Interest

To register interest, contact your local Ceres Rural office.