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Sustainable Farming Scheme
The Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) launched on 1st January 2026, gradually replacing the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS), which is being phased out by 2029. The scheme is designed to support the sustainable production of food while helping farm businesses improve productivity, resilience and environmental outcomes.
SFS is structured around three layers – Universal, Optional and Collaborative – with different requirements and funding opportunities available as the scheme develops.
Whether you are already participating in SFS, considering joining in a future scheme year or looking at additional funding opportunities, our Stewardship & Grants team can provide practical advice and support tailored to your farm.
Already participating in SFS?
Joining the Sustainable Farming Scheme is only the beginning. Once you are participating in SFS, there are ongoing requirements to meet as well as opportunities to consider as the scheme develops.
Our Stewardship & Grants team can help you make the most of your agreement by supporting you with:
- Universal Actions
- Optional Layer opportunities
- Collaborative Actions
- Evidence requirements and record keeping
- Ongoing compliance
- Annual declarations
- Preparing for future funding opportunities
Whether you need help understanding what is required, keeping on top of your agreement or planning for what comes next, our team can provide practical advice and ongoing support tailored to your farm.
Considering SFS for a future scheme year?
If you have not yet entered SFS, our team can help you understand what joining the scheme could mean for your farm.
This can include helping you understand the scheme requirements, the potential financial implications for your business and how SFS could fit alongside your existing farming system and longer-term plans.
Where appropriate, we can also provide support with the application process through Rural Payments Wales (RPW) Online.
Funding opportunities through SFS
SFS provides opportunities for farmers to access additional funding through Optional Actions, allowing businesses to build on the Universal Layer and undertake further actions that support farm resilience, productivity and environmental improvements.
As funding opportunities become available, our Stewardship & Grants team can provide practical advice and support to help you understand the options available and what they could mean for your farm.
Where applications are required, we can help you identify suitable grant items, check your eligibility, review supporting evidence and submit your application.
Collaborative opportunities
The Collaborative Layer provides opportunities for farmers, land managers and other organisations to work together to deliver projects across larger areas.
Opportunities will continue to develop as SFS progresses, with support available for a range of collaborative projects and activities.
Our team can provide advice and support to help you understand the opportunities available and how they may be relevant to your farm or wider project.
Planning ahead as SFS develops
The Sustainable Farming Scheme will continue to develop over the coming years, with further requirements and funding opportunities introduced as the scheme progresses.
Understanding what may be coming next can help you plan ahead and consider how future SFS requirements and opportunities could fit with your wider farm business.
Our Stewardship & Grants team can provide advice and support as the scheme develops, helping you understand changes, prepare for future funding opportunities and consider what they could mean for your farm.
Latest SFS guidance and resources
SFS requirements, funding opportunities and application arrangements will continue to develop. For current scheme rules, payment information, application dates and detailed requirements, please refer to the latest Welsh Government guidance.
Useful resources:
Speak to our Stewardship & Grants team
If you would like help understanding your SFS requirements, managing your existing agreement, considering joining the scheme or accessing future funding opportunities, please get in touch with our Stewardship & Grants team on 01981 590514 or email info@cxcs.co.uk .
Our team can help you understand what SFS means for your farm and provide practical advice and support as the scheme continues to develop.