The RPA has said that from today (12 November), you can now apply for SFI 2024 without needing to complete the expression of interest survey.
Applications can be made directly via the Rural Payments Service.
Under the ‘expanded’ SFI offer, farmers will be able to apply to choose from 102 actions, including:
- More than 20 new options, with payments for precision farming and agroforestry, plus actions to support flood preparedness, climate change resilience and ‘challenging’ weather conditions.
- An expanded offer for upland farmers.
- Most actions will be for 3 years to support tenants on short-term contracts.
However, the offer is not yet open to those who farm on common land. If you farm on common land and want to apply for SFI, the RPA is encouraging you to get in to contact. Email [email protected] with the subject heading ‘Expanded Offer Commons Interest’ to find out more.
Those farming on moorland commons can continue to access the action already available in SFI – CMOR1: assess the condition of the moorland (previously MOR1). They will be able to apply for the expanded offer on their non-common land through a separate agreement if they wish.
Delays to application processing sparks concern
Responding to the news, NFU Deputy President David Exwood said: “The NFU welcomes the removal of the expression of interest process which has been in place longer than anyone would have liked.
“However, we still have concerns over the speed of conversion from initial applications being submitted, to the SFI agreements being offered.
“It’s more important than ever now that those applications in the system are processed quickly, especially with the effective removal of delinked payments, to allow agreements to start as soon as possible.
“Cashflow and confidence in SFI are crucial in helping farmers plan for 2025 and beyond.”
“It’s more important than ever now that those applications in the system are processed quickly, especially with the effective removal of delinked payments.”
NFU Deputy President David Exwood
Last month's Autumn Budget saw the government introduce plans to speed up the end of the direct payment phaseout. The fastest reductions in support will be for those who received more than £100,000 in direct payments in 2020 as these businesses will receive no more than £7,200 in 2025.
The RPA has said those who have submitted an SFI expression of interest form but haven't been invited to apply yet will receive a notification today to submit their application.
This announcement means that you can access the expanded offer immediately, with the exception of those who farm on common land. The government is updating its website with the announcement, while it does this please be aware you can make your application now without the need to complete any expression of interest form.
