Bluetongue continues to present significant challenges for livestock farmers, with cases reported across the country and the impact being felt particularly strongly across the ruminant sector.
At Red Tractor, we recognise that the effects of Bluetongue go well beyond the immediate animal health concerns. Farmers are dealing with difficult decisions, disruption to normal routines and, in some cases, significant losses. The pressure this creates can also have a real impact on farmer wellbeing and morale.
A compassionate approach
As the UK’s leading food assurance scheme, Red Tractor has an important role in maintaining standards. But we also recognise the circumstances in which farmers are working, including the challenges and pressures Bluetongue can create.
Bluetongue may make it more difficult for farmers to demonstrate some elements of compliance at the point of assessment. For example, fallen stock collections may not be taking place as frequently as usual, livestock may be recumbent, or normal management plans may need to change because of vaccination, animal handling or disease control requirements.
Where issues are identified, it is important that these circumstances are understood and considered. Farmers should not feel that they are facing these challenges alone, or that circumstances outside their control are being overlooked.
Taking a compassionate approach means understanding the circumstances behind what assessors see on farm and recognising the additional pressures farmers are facing, while continuing with assessments as normal.
Supporting farmers through a difficult time
Our technical team is continuing to engage with industry representatives to monitor the situation as it develops. We will provide further updates where there is information that members need to know.
We also want to remind farmers that support is available if the pressure is becoming difficult to manage. Looking after yourself and talking to someone is just as important as looking after the animals and the farm. Organisations like FCN and RABI are there to help.
Useful information and support:
- AHDB: Bluetongue FAQs – information for farmers and the wider ruminant sector.
- National Sheep Association – NSA and SVS guidance on Bluetongue
- Red Tractor: Where to find farming support – information on organisations and services available to support farmers.
Red Tractor will continue to listen, work with industry and keep the situation under review. We know this is a difficult time for many farmers, and we want our approach to reflect both the importance of maintaining standards and the reality of what is happening on farm.