Practical help and support during Covid-19
We are in unprecedented times, with the country in lockdown, life feels very strange for us all. As we adjust to this “new normal” the Government’s Coronavirus Bill recognises the strategic importance of the agricultural sector and the need for those involved in the food supply chain to continue to operate. We are playing our part in this and whilst working remotely, our Rural team remain committed to providing you with the practical estate and farm advice and the support that you need to deal with the immediate challenges posed by the coronavirus outbreak.
We have just produced the latest version of our Basic Payment Facts publication – the pocket-sized summary of BPS rules, which we hope you find useful as we all prepare to submit this year’s BPS claim.
The deadline for applications to be submitted currently remains unchanged (15th May), although we understand that Ministers are discussing an extension to this. As soon as we know any more about this we will let you know, but in the meantime we are working to ensure that this process is carried out as smoothly as possible and meets the 15th May deadline.
Our teams are also focused on how best we can help you to operate safely, support your local communities and stay as positive as possible through the coming weeks – particularly those of you with enterprises facing significant business disruption.
Last week we published a short checklist with advice on estate management and well-being in relation to the coronavirus outbreak. This is backed by a range of forms and protocols that we continually update, which can be accessed by speaking to your local S&P contact.
We will be using our Rural Hub to share additional information as it emerges.
If you have introduced any initiatives that may be helpful to other farms and rural estates, and would be happy to share them, do let us know. It has been said many times already – but remains true nevertheless – we are all in this together.
On a positive note, better weather is at least enabling growers to get on the land to drill spring crops, which comes as a huge relief. Getting through the coming weeks and months has to be the priority, and if there is anything that we can help with, do please feel free to email or phone. We are here to help in whatever way we can – even if it’s just to lend an ear.
Stay safe.
