The GB Dairy Calf Strategy 2020-2023 is an industry-led strategy, facilitated by AHDB and the NFU, launched in 2020.

The strategy aim is that all dairy-bred calves in the UK are reared with care and for a purpose as part of either the dairy or beef supply chains, thereby eliminating the need for routine euthanasia.

The industry committed to providing the best care for all calves and to finding practical solutions to reduce the number of dairy bull calves being routinely  euthanised on-farm.

The strategy included seven priority areas and this report summarises the progress that has been made, along with other industry initiatives that have supported the aims of the strategy.

The seven strategic priorities for the GB dairy calf strategy are:  

  • Encourage responsible breeding strategies through farm assurance
    Aspiration: Breed calves that are economically attractive to potential beef buyers/rearers

     

  • Better communication of market requirements 
    Aspiration: Better communication of the market requirements to ensure suitable beef animals are being produced for the market

     

  • Increase the number of biosecure routes for TB-affected herds
    Aspiration: Through an industry-led forum with government participation, achieve an increase in the number of AFUs, LFUs, alongside an increase in Isolation Units (IUs) to create robust supply chains in England and Wales.
     
  • Rear all calves with care
    Aspiration: All people working across the calf supply chain must deliver on their responsibilities for good calf health and welfare

     

  • Supporting Britain’s beef sector
    Aspiration: Commitment from food businesses to support Britain’s farmers to move away from euthanasia of dairy bred bull calves and back British beef

     

  • Opening up new pathways and supply chain opportunities for dairy bred calves
    Aspiration: Develop robust supply chains for high-quality, farm assured dairy beef and veal

 

Review of progress

In 2024 a review of progress was undertaken, with findings achieved in the first three years shared (January 2025) in the report below.

The next phase of the strategy is to review it again after the 2025-2028 period.

This welfare strategy report is part of a wider body of work at RH&W to facilitate and create welfare strategies for the whole UK ruminant sector. 

Find all RH&W strategies here.