As we reach the midpoint of the Sheep Welfare Strategy 2023–2028, this review provides an important opportunity to take stock of current progress and refocus our efforts for the remaining two years.
With our six strategic goals already set out and good progress being made against them, this timely review allows us to pinpoint where momentum is building, what challenges remain and where greater attention is now required.
Thankfully, there are clear areas of progress, supported by strong initiatives and growing collaboration across the sector, and these demonstrate what can be achieved when farmers, industry bodies and stakeholders work towards a shared vision. At the same time, there are other issues that underline the need for renewed focus and practical solutions.
Good sheep welfare remains a foundational pillar for the industry and one that is brought into stark focus at a time when a warming climate is changing the disease and welfare threats faced by the national flock, and proposed legislation may put greater onus on farmers around practices such as tail docking and castration of lambs.
However, measuring progress in a way that doesn’t overburden farmers, and is meaningful, is not without its challenges. Important evidence gaps remain and while we can identify the types of data needed, accessing it is not always straightforward. Both quantitative and qualitative insights are essential, yet we are mindful of avoiding unnecessary burdens on farmers. Robust, meaningful data will be critical if we are to demonstrate progress and build trust in our systems and that means the task ahead is to develop smarter, more practical ways of gathering and using this information.
This review sets out clear recommendations and next steps for the remainder of the strategy period. If we get this right, we can provide strong leadership, enhance our international reputation and secure a sustainable future for the sheep sector.
Thank you to all the stakeholders involved up to this point and I look forward to seeing the full results in two years’ time.
