New strategy launched to support high beef production welfare standards
An ambitious five-year plan designed to strengthen animal health, welfare and farm productivity across the beef sector has been launched.
The Ruminant Health and Welfare Beef Welfare Strategy 2026–2031 has been developed with input from key industry stakeholders and establishes a goal for every beef animal to be managed within a system that prioritises high welfare standards, sustainable practices and skilled stockmanship.
At its core are six strategic goals focused on health management, thriving livestock, improved housing, stockperson development, positive welfare and critical health planning.
The strategy has been led by farmers, vets, organisations and industry professionals through Ruminant Health & Welfare and places strong emphasis on proactive herd health planning, as well as encouraging closer links between industry players.
Housing and environmental management also feature prominently, with a focus on providing clean, comfortable and enriched conditions that allow cattle to express natural behaviours. This includes planning for extreme weather and ensuring facilities promote good handling and low-stress interactions.
Importantly, the strategy moves beyond basic health measures to promote ‘positive welfare’ and encouraging systems that enable cattle to thrive.
“By improving disease prevention and management, the industry aims to boost productivity, reduce environmental impact and support more responsible use of medicines.”
“Stockpeople are recognised as central to achieving these ambitions. The strategy highlights the importance of ongoing training and skills development to ensure those working with cattle are equipped to make timely, informed decisions that safeguard welfare and improve outcomes on farm.”
– Neil Shand, chief executive of the National Beef Association and chair of the Beef Welfare Strategy working group.
Housing and environmental management also feature prominently, with a focus on providing clean, comfortable and enriched conditions that allow cattle to express natural behaviours. This includes planning for extreme weather and ensuring facilities promote good handling and low-stress interactions.
Importantly, the strategy moves beyond basic health measures to promote ‘positive welfare’ and encouraging systems that enable cattle to thrive.
“Delivery of the strategy will be underpinned by industry-wide collaboration, data collection and clear measurement of progress. Farmers will play a key role in shaping and implementing practical actions, supported by knowledge exchange and aligned policy frameworks.”
– Gwyn Jones, Chair of Ruminant Health and Welfare.
For more information on the strategy or find out more about supporting the strategy, please email: ruminanthw@ahdb.org.uk