Avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, remains a serious risk for poultry keepers across England. It spreads quickly and can have serious consequences if it reaches a flock.
If the disease is confirmed on a farm, birds usually have to be culled to stop it spreading. Restrictions may also be placed on moving birds, eggs and equipment, which can disrupt businesses and supply chains.
England also sits on migratory bird routes, meaning wild birds can bring the virus into the country seasonally. That makes reducing risk through good biosecurity especially important.
We’ve heard from the poultry sector that tailored, practical advice is more useful than general guidance when it comes to biosecurity. Risks vary between farms. What works on one site may not work on another.
That’s why we’re introducing funded Poultry Biosecurity Reviews as part of the Animal Health and Welfare Pathway.
A Poultry Biosecurity Review is a funded vet visit designed to give you practical, site-specific advice based on how your business works.
In this post, I’ll share an overview of the review, how to apply, and details of an upcoming webinar.
What the review covers
To be eligible, you must:
- be responsible for the day-to-day care of the birds
- have a Single Business Identifier (SBI)
- have a registered County Parish Holding (CPH) in England
You must meet at least one of the following minimum flock sizes per CPH:
- 1,000 laying hens
- 1,000 meat chickens
- 1,000 breeder chickens (including pullets)
- 500 ducks
- 500 geese
- 500 turkeys
You can apply for a review for each eligible site.
You can choose your own vet, arrange the visit at a time that works for you and pay them as usual, then claim the money back through the scheme.
The vet will:
- look at biosecurity risks on your site
- identify where changes could reduce disease risk
- give tailored advice you can act on
- provide a written report for future reference
You’ll receive £430 per review to help cover the cost of the visit.
You can apply through the Poultry Biosecurity Review service.
All funded visits must be completed by 31 December 2028, and claims must be submitted by 31 March 2029.
Join our webinar
On 18 June at 11am, we’re hosting a webinar where you can learn more about the review. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask questions before applying.
We look forward to seeing you there.
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