Levels of preparation for the Whole Farm Plan – 2023 Farmer Intentions Survey Briefing

This policy brief presents analysis of a Farmer Intentions Survey undertaken in 2023 of Scottish farmers, crofters and smallholders, to determine levels of preparation (already having plans or audits in place) for the Whole Farm Plan (WFP) requirement of agricultural support in Scotland from 2025 onwards.

To obtain Basic Payment Scheme payment in 2025 and onwards, farmers, smallholders and crofters will require to have in place a minimum of two audits and/or plans from the WFP declared in their Single Application Form submitted by 15 May 2025. The WFP will comprise an animal health and welfare plan, a biodiversity audit, carbon audit, integrated pest management plan and soil analysis. From 2028, a nutrient management plan will also become a requirement.

Analysis undertaken found variations in the proportion of plans and audits in place by characteristics of Scotland’s farmers, crofters and smallholders. Key findings include that smaller farmers and crofters, those in the Highlands and Islands region, sheep farmers and crofters and those with smaller sheep flock and cattle herd sizes and female farmers/crofters were less likely to have plans and audits that comprise the WFP in place at the time of survey.