Pig producers given three months to complete welfare course
© Tim Scrivener Red Tractor assured pig producers will have just three months from 1 March to complete a welfare training course under revised standards introduced last year.
The new rules require anyone involved in caring for pigs to have completed welfare training by the end of May. Training will be provided via a new online platform run by the AHDB.
The 1 March launch date is later than originally planned following a delay to make refinements based on feedback from producers involved in a pilot.
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Courses will be provided through explanatory videos followed by a series of multiple-choice questions to check information has been understood.
Successful trainees will receive a digital certificate that can be saved for Red Tractor audits. The first module is on moving and handling of pigs.
Courses will be free for the first six months after the launch before a £10 per person charge is introduced, thereafter.
Red Tractor pigs scheme chairman Stewart Houston said he realised the courses were being introduced at a time when the pig sector was facing extreme difficulties. But he maintained that the training was a vital part of giving shoppers the confidence to buy British pork.
“It is an important part of making sure that the standards that we all expect within the industry are being met by those caring for animals,” said Mr Houston
“Making sure we have consistent, accredited training for all means our industry can demonstrate its professional and positive approach to pig welfare to customers and consumers.”
Joint development
The online platform was developed in partnership with the Pig Health and Welfare Council, the National Pig Association (NPA) and the Pig Veterinary Society.
NPA chief executive Zoe Davies said the organisation had helped to ensure the platform was fit for purpose.
“This is now compulsory for Red Tractor members, and we very much encourage people to get online and get involved and do it,” Dr Davies said.
“We are pleased that AHDB has waived the registration fee for the first six months.”