The new SFI offer for 2026
Following the Secretary of State’s speech at the Oxford Farming Conference today, we summarise how we're making the new SFI simpler and more targeted, and what this means for you.
We're working with farms to improve the way we regulate and support farming and the environment.
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Following the Secretary of State’s speech at the Oxford Farming Conference today, we summarise how we're making the new SFI simpler and more targeted, and what this means for you.
Today at the Oxford Farming Conference, the Environment Secretary made a series of announcements to support farmers in England, with a focus on clarity, partnership and growth.
The government has today launched a new Animal Welfare Strategy. It sets out a comprehensive programme of reforms to improve the lives of millions of animals across England, from farm animals and pets to wildlife. In this post, we’ll summarise what this means for livestock keepers and the wider rural community.
The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025 received Royal Assent today, strengthening legal protections for farmers against livestock worrying.
The Farming Profitability Review 2025, an independent review led by Baroness Minette Batters, has been published.
From the food on our plates to fuel in our tanks, combinable crops are part of all our lives. A public consultation, open now, seeks views on fairness and transparency in contracts across the combinable crops sector.
Defra’s network of agri-food attachés helps UK farmers and food producers get their products onto international shelves and grow their businesses overseas. In this post, we explain what they do and include links for those looking to expand their international sales and find the best markets for their products.
We’re offering a one-year extension to more than 5,000 farmers whose Countryside Stewardship Mid Tier (CS MT) agreements are set to expire on 31 December this year.
We’re pleased to confirm that over 8,800 applicants have successfully secured funding through this year’s Farming Equipment and Technology Fund (FETF). Grant Funding Agreements (GFAs) have now been sent.
Last year, money collected from fines on water companies between April 2022 and October 2023 was invested in the £11 million Water Restoration Fund. In this post, we share the list of successful grant applicants and highlight one of the projects.
This blog is managed by Defra’s Farming and Countryside Team.
On this blog, we explain the reforms to agricultural policy in England.
We share what we’re working on, what we’re learning and how you can get involved. Find out more

Read the new guidance to understand what the changes could mean for your business and how to prepare.
From 6 April 2026, qualifying agricultural and business assets will continue to receive full inheritance tax relief up to a combined value of £2.5 million. Lower relief rates will apply to assets above this amount. Learn more

12-14 June Three Counties at Three Counties Showground, Malvern.
16-17 June Register to attend Defra Farming updates in Maidstone, Ardingly and Chinnor.

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.
18 June at 11am, we’re hosting a webinar where you can learn more about the Poultry Biosecurity Review and service. Register to attend.

Innovate UK Business Connect invites you to join its new directory and connect with public sector buyers.