Defra announces £30m boost to Higher Level Stewardship scheme payments
28th May 2025
Defra has just announced that thousands of farmers will benefit from a £30 million boost to payments received for nature-friendly farming practices under the Higher Level Stewardship (HLS) scheme.
From 1st January 2025, payment rates for 157 HLS options will rise, rewarding farmers already delivering for nature – particularly in uplands and other sensitive areas where they protect rare species, restore habitats, and maintain traditional countryside features.
HLS is a scheme under the Environmental Stewardship in England that provides funding to farmers and land managers to undertake more complex environmental management practices than Entry Level Stewardship (ELS).
HLS aims to deliver significant environmental benefits to high-priority areas, including wildlife conservation, landscape enhancement, and natural resource protection.
Defra said that this uplift recognises and rewards the vital role farmers play in restoring habitats and protecting England’s iconic landscapes.
READ MORE: What farming grants will be available in 2025?
‘Farmers’ essential role in protecting environment’
Farming minister Daniel Zeichner added: “Farmers are the backbone of our countryside, and they’re leading the charge to restore nature.
“This £30 million uplift in HLS payments recognises their essential role in protecting our environment – work that’s crucial for long-term food security, boosting productivity, and tackling climate change.
“By backing them with fairer rewards, we’re investing in a stronger and more sustainable future for British farming, helping to drive growth in rural communities as part of our Plan for Change.”
Payments will be automatically increased, landing from December 2025.
The government said it is committed to targeting public funds wisely, making farming more profitable and sustainable for decades to come as we deliver on the Plan for Change.
Read more farm business news.
