Online applications hailed a success after positive feedback

THE Farmers’ Union of Wales has described the Welsh Government’s online Single Application process as a success following the May 15 Single Application Form (SAF) deadline.

FUW head of policy Dr Nick Fenwick said: “Our county staff have helped members to fill in around 3,500 forms, and the feedback from members and staff has been overwhelmingly positive.”

Dr Fenwick said there could be no doubt that this positive response is a direct result of the lengths to which RPW [Rural Payments Wales] went to ensure the involvement of industry representatives when designing the RPW Online system.

“We have been involved since the process was conceived and continue to work with RPW to try and improve the system. We are currently consulting with our staff in order to identify possible further improvements following the 2017 SAF process, and these will be fed back to RPW in the coming weeks.”

“The success of the system clearly demonstrates the benefits and positive outcomes of collaboration. Once again, the approach has shown why it should serve as a template for future collaboration.”

Dr Fenwick also took the opportunity to thank FUW staff and members, as well as RPW staff, for their work and assistance throughout the SAF process.

“The 10 weeks leading up to May 15 is an extremely busy time of year, with staff and farmers working long hours.

“We’re indebted to all those staff who have assisted with the SAF process, and to those who have provided advice and helped clear up the odd glitch or problem.