Chris Maxwell is Head of Policy for the 'Get funding to improve animal health and welfare service' at Defra.
With over 18 years in the Civil Service and 7 years shaping the Animal Health and Welfare Pathway, he leads the team that co-designed the Pathway’s disease control programme with industry.
Chris now oversees the delivery of targeted funding to help farmers improve animal health and welfare, making sure the service is practical, effective, and aligned with wider policy goals across Defra and the Farming and Countryside Programme.
Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) testing is a required part of the animal health and welfare review for pigs. From 22 January, vets will be able to use blood samples as an alternative to oral fluid samples, making it easier for pig farmers to take part in the review.
From 22 January 2026, payments for the animal health and welfare review and the endemic disease follow-up will increase. This post sets out the new rates and explains how to access the funding.
From today, farmers in England can get a funded vet visit for each of their herds or flocks of the same species. This helps those with multiple groups of cattle, pigs or sheep to access tailored animal health and welfare support across their business.
Use our free tool to plan and manage your nutrient applications.
From 6 April 2026, full inheritance tax relief will apply to the first £2.5 million of qualifying agricultural and business assets, with lower relief applying to any value above this. Learn more
24-25 February NFU Conference at The ICC in Birmingham.
27-28 February IAgSA Conference at Blunsdon House Hotel in Swindon.
The Farming Advice Service (FAS) provides free, confidential advice to farmers and advisers.
Catchment Sensitive Farming (CSF) helps farmers in England protect water, air and soil. CSF advisers can provide advice on best practices and specific actions that will benefit your farm business and the environment.
We’ve compiled a list of organisations offering wellbeing support to those in the farming community.
