The Scottish Government has confirmed that the Scottish Upland Sheep Support Scheme (SUSSS) will continue at least until 2026 before being reviewed or potentially replaced. The £6m fund opened this week for applications.

Payment rates for eligible ewe hoggs were £61.38 in 2023 and £61.25 in 2022, with around 1150 businesses paid.

A Scottish Government spokesperson said:

“SUSSS will continue until at least 2026, after which consideration will be given to how support will be delivered from 2027 onwards. We will work alongside our farmers and crofters as part of our agricultural transition. We have promised no cliff edges in support for farmers and crofters, and our Agriculture Reform Route Map clearly outlines our intended approach.

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“The Agriculture and Rural Communities Act passed this year establishes a framework that allows the Scottish Government to deliver our Vision for Agriculture, supporting farmers in a sustainable and regenerative way with the flexibility to address future challenges.”

NFU Scotland Director of Policy, Jonnie Hall, added: “The reassurance for our hill farmers and crofters is that SUSSS is here for at least another three years. We want to ensure that these valuable funds are targeted towards those the ewe hogg scheme was designed to help.

“For the foreseeable future, we want to see coupled support remain available for those who are actively farming on Region 3 land.”

Grace Reid, Scottish Policy Advisor at the National Sheep Association, said: “SUSSS is vital support for hill farmers and crofters, and without it, it would be nearly impossible for them to continue operating on some of our most challenging land. NSA believes it is crucial that the sector, which produces sustainable meat and wool, is recognised, supported, and rewarded for the many public goods and services it provides to the public."