Basic Payment Scheme 2020 support scheme launched

Following the success of schemes introduced in 2018 and 2019, the 2020 scheme will again pay a loan of up to 90% of an individual business’ anticipated BPS claim value.

The Support Payment will alleviate the short term pressure on those farm businesses which do not receive their BPS payment on day one of the payment window, which opens on 1 December.

The BPS 2020 Support Scheme will open for applications via Rural Payments Wales (RPW) Online on 1 September and will remain open until 27 November.

Subject to applicants meeting the necessary terms and conditions, payment will be made to successful claimants, whose full BPS claim is not processed, during the week commencing 7 December.

Rural Affairs Minister, Lesley Griffiths said: “The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the vital role played by our agriculture industry in our resilience as a society. During these difficult times, it has been my priority to ensure farmers are given the flexibility and support necessary to protect food supply chains and our long-term environmental resilience.

“I intend to build on the success of the Support Schemes introduced in previous years by once again implementing a BPS Support Scheme for 2020. This will provide Welsh farm businesses that apply, much needed financial certainty during these unprecedented times, whilst the UK’s future trading relationship with the EU remains unclear.

“This is an opt-in scheme and I would urge all farm businesses to apply for the 2020 BPS Support Scheme using the simple RPW Online form.”