Recent Developments in Agricultural Funding: Delinked Payments and Sustainable Farming Incentives

The agricultural sector has seen significant updates with the rollout of delinked payments and the activation of the 2024 Sustainable Farming Incentive agreements, marking a pivotal shift in the way farming subsidies are distributed and managed.

Delinked Payments Update
Last week, the Rural Payments Agency (RPA) made a notable announcement that 98% of eligible farmers had received their first instalment of the new delinked payments, with the second instalment now scheduled for 30 September—an advancement from the original schedule. This change aims to enhance cash flow for farmers during challenging times, as stated by RPA Chief Executive, Paul Caldwell. Delinked payments, calculated based on the average BPS payment from 2020 to 2022, will continue until 2027 with progressive deductions applied annually. Farmers who have yet to receive their first instalment are encouraged to contact support for assistance. For more details, visit the RPA announcement.

Sustainable Farming Incentive Agreements for 2024
Concurrently, the Sustainable Farming Incentive agreements for 2024 are now operational, introducing new opportunities for farmers to engage in environmentally sustainable practices. To assist farmers in identifying potential grants and funding for which they might be eligible, the government has introduced a new online tool. This tool provides a preliminary guide to potential funding opportunities, although it does not confirm eligibility. Farmers looking for support in navigating these opportunities can access the tool here. For further information, refer to the government’s recent news release.

How Beavis Morgan Can Help
At Beavis Morgan, our Landed Estates & Rural Businesses team are available to support the agricultural community through these changes. Whether you are navigating the complexities of delinked payments, exploring new grants under the Sustainable Farming Incentive, or simply seeking strategic advice to optimise your farming operations, our experts are here to help. We provide tailored guidance to ensure you can maximise these opportunities effectively while maintaining compliance and enhancing your farm’s profitability.

For personalised assistance and to learn more about how we can support your agricultural endeavours, please contact your usual Beavis Morgan partner or email info@beavismorgan.com.