Single Payment Scheme and environmental schemes

The Single Payment Scheme (SPS) was introduced on 1st January 2005 and was designed to simplify the various subsidy payments into one payment. Previously farmers subsidy payments had been derived from 11 different schemes. Importantly, by decoupling the payment farmers were given greater freedom to farm to the demands of the market.  

Carver Knowles have been at the forefront of advising farmers throughout the regions on SPS and have established a reputation as one of the leading experts in the country. We advise on the following:-

• SPS applications and appeals
• Entitlement trading
• FVP/horicultural authorisations
• National reserve claims and appeals

As a result of the SPS, much has changed in the structure of agreements for land occupation and we can advise on tenancies and contract farming arrangements to ensure taxation benefits for the owner are maximised and also the ability to claim the single payment preserved

Environmental grants

The SPS brought with it an emphasis on the environment with environmentally friendly farming practices being encouraged and rewarded. Such reward is derived from shifting funds from farm subsidies to environmental services through the Government's use of volunary modulation and the implementation of a Rural Development Programme (RDP). For the period 2007-13 the RDP for England has a budget of £3.9 billion

Participating in one or more of the schemes that are set up within the RDP is a way for a farmer to recoup money deducted by way of the modulation. In many cases entry to such shemes has little effect on the existing day to day management of the farm

Keeping in touch with the detail of the RDP and the various schemes that emerge from it is fundamental to our role as advisers in this area of work