The New Sustainable Farming Scheme in Wales - What You Need to Know

Introduction

The Sustainable Farming Scheme is set to be implemented in 2026 and will replace the Basic Payment Scheme in Wales. All farmers in Wales will need to consider whether they enter into the scheme or not and whether they adhere to eligibility and conditionality requirements of the scheme.

Estate managers and lawyers will need to support clients in understanding compliance obligations, documenting actions and addressing the legal implications of participation, or non-participation, in the scheme. The SFS also has direct implications for Farm Business Tenancies (FBTs), licences, land transfers and estate planning, making it essential for legal advisors advising clients in Wales to stay informed.

This session will provide you with insight into the practical steps farmers must take, documentation requirements, potential pitfalls and how the scheme intersects with land and contractual law.

What You Will Learn

This live and interactive course will cover the following:

• Overview of the Sustainable Farming Scheme
• Eligibility criteria
• Universal actions - what farmers need to do, what documentation they will need to prepare to provide evidence and the pitfalls to watch out for
• Optional actions and collaborative actions - what these may include
• Issues of non-compliance
• Drafting of FBTs/licences/transfers of land in light of the changes
• SFS and estates

Recording of live sessions: Soon after the Learn Live session has taken place you will be able to go back and access the recording - should you wish to revisit the material discussed.