The new scheme, which aims to help pig farmers increase the profitability and productivity of the herd to improve their health, was launched in Wales by the government and the Menter Moch Cymru initiative, funded by the Government of the Welsh Rural Communities.

The new initiative will provide financial assistance for the planning and implementation of measures to protect the health of pig herds.

Pig farmers will be able to receive 80% of the funding for the initial implementation of the herd's health plan, after which additional support will be provided in subsequent years to revise the plan.

The scheme will help farmers increase farm efficiency and disseminate best practices in active animal health planning.

In addition, for 6 months, Menter Moch Cymru for Welsh veterinarians will provide specialized CDP training to ensure that they are self-confident and knowledgeable about how to implement their herd health plan for the pig farm.

Melanie Cargill, Project Manager at Menter Moch Cymru, said: “Launching this new financial support initiative will help farmers and veterinarians work together to develop animal health plans and monitor their performance over the coming years.”