Getting SFS‑Ready: Practical Planning to Prepare

Clear guidance on SFS, what to do now, how to prepare your farm, and avoid unnecessary cost or risk.

With the Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) being developed and phased in, many farmers are asking what it really means for their business and what they should be doing now.

This practical workshop is designed to help farmers understand the latest SFS updates from Welsh Government, what actions can be taken now without unnecessary cost or risk, and how to prepare in a sensible, whole‑farm way.

The session will explain the structure of the scheme, including the rollout phases and Universal Actions, and focus on practical steps such as preparing whole‑farm baselines, identifying natural assets, and understanding what evidence is likely to be required. We will also look at low‑cost actions that can be implemented now to support readiness without committing to anything prematurely.

There will be time for questions and discussion, including the opportunity to explore individual farm scenarios.

This workshop is suitable for all farm types and is ideal for farmers looking for clear, practical guidance on SFS readiness rather than policy jargon.

Key Points Covered

● Overview of SFS rollout, phases, and the latest Welsh Government updates

● What farmers can do now without losing time or money

● Preparing whole-farm baselines (hedgerows, habitats, soil, carbon, water)

● Understanding “Universal Actions” and their practical impact

● Low-cost actions farmers can implement immediately

● Mapping the farm’s natural assets

● What evidence farmers will need

● Q&A and individual scenario discussion

Who Should Attend

This workshop is suitable for:

• Farmers in Wales wanting to understand what SFS means for their farm
• Farmers currently in or considering the SFS
• Those unsure whether to take action now or wait
• Farm businesses wanting to prepare baselines and evidence sensibly
• Farmers looking for practical guidance rather than policy detail
• Agents, advisers and rural professionals supporting farm businesses (optional inclusion)

It is suitable for all farm types and sizes.

Why Attend

By attending, you will:

• Gain a clear understanding of how the Sustainable Farming Scheme is being rolled out
• Learn what actions you can take now without risking time or money
• Understand Universal Actions and their practical implications on-farm
• Be better prepared to gather baselines and evidence efficiently
• Identify low‑cost actions that support future SFS readiness
• Have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss your own farm situation