Animal Health Improvement (AHIC) update and earned recognition

Welsh Government announcement: Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS): Universal action 12 – Animal health improvement cycle (AHIC).

What does it mean for FAWL members who have joined SFS in 2026?

You may be aware of some announcements that were made by the Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability Llyr Gruffydd, during the Royal Welsh Show earlier this summer, one of which he confirmed:

‘Following early feedback from the independent review into the bureaucratic burden on family farms, led by John Davies, the Minister announced early action to cut red tape for farmers.

The Welsh Government has announced a simplification of the approach for the Animal Health Improvement Cycle (AHIC) in the Universal Layer of the Sustainable Farming Scheme.

The simplification will be delivered in two parts. The Welsh Government will work with any interested farm assurance scheme to ensure requirements are aligned, meaning farmers in those schemes will only need to complete one form from 2027, delivering two outcomes from a single vet visit: farm assurance and SFS compliance.

At the heart of our approach remains the close working relationship between farmers and their vets to achieve positive outcomes.’

Further to this announcement, Welsh Government has subsequently provided further guidance in relation to this. We understand that changes of this nature can raise questions, especially around earned recognition and how it affects inspections.

At present, we are awaiting further clarification from Welsh Government.

We expect an announcement in the coming weeks and will update you as soon as information is confirmed. Our priority is to ensure that members understand the position clearly and know what it means for their farm. For reference, here is the Welsh Government’s Red Tape Review

What does this mean for FAWL members who HAVE joined SFS in 2026?

As per guidance in the link above, WLBP members in SFS may not need to complete the AHIC for 2026. WLBP are currently engaging with the Welsh Government regarding the FAWL alignment and earned recognition for 2027. As soon as we receive confirmation from the Welsh Government, we will contact you immediately.