Scots upland sheep farmers receive £6m via support scheme

More than 1,000 sheep enterprises in Scotland have received funding through the Scottish Upland Sheep Support Scheme so far this year.

Collectively, more than £6.4m worth of funding had been provided by the Scottish government for the upland sheep sector by 19 May.

The scheme, now in its second year, provides funding to help maintain sheep flocks on poorer quality grazing land.

See also: Scots government unveils £2m support package for new entrants

To date, the Scottish government has paid out to 97% of eligible businesses, with any remaining payments expected to be made in the coming weeks.

Scottish agriculture minister Jim Fairlie said: “We are acutely aware that farmers need to be able to plan their year and it is why we remain committed to directly supporting them, unlike elsewhere in the UK where payments are being stopped.

“Turning the applications around quickly and getting this money into accounts, as per the payment strategy, allows farmers to stabilise cash flow and invest in their businesses.”

Mr Fairlie added that thousands of jobs were dependent on the Scottish sheep sector, with well managed robust hill flocks needed to support the wider local economy.

“This payment scheme is unique in the UK and we maintain it because we recognise the value of supporting our upland hill farmers.”

Eligibility

Payments are made based on the number of ewe hoggs born on holdings in designated upland areas.

Farm businesses must retain eligible livestock on farm from 1 December in the claim year to 31 March the following year, in order to qualify for the funding.

Guidance states that claims can be made between 1 September and 30 November each year.