RSPCA Assured is offering flexible assessments and practical welfare advice to poultry farmers affected by avian influenza (AI) as the seasonal risk increases.
Members subject to a compulsory housing order, or whose farms are within a 3km protection zone or 10km surveillance zone, may be eligible for a desktop assessment instead of an immediate in-person visit.
The desktop assessment must be followed by an in-person, unannounced visit within six months, and no later than 30 September 2027.
For the 2026/27 AI season, both assessments will be free for sites covered by a mandatory housing order that qualify for the desktop option. Requests from sites outside housing order areas will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Mark Robertson, interim assistant director of certification and assurance at RSPCA Assured, said: “We know how stressful and worrying AI outbreaks are for our members. Protecting birds’ health and welfare remains a priority, and we’re here to support farmers.
“We will continue to offer flexible assessment options this year, alongside practical advice to help members maintain the RSPCA welfare standards.”
The scheme is also advising producers on measures to maintain bird welfare during housing orders, including providing additional enrichment to encourage natural foraging behaviour.
Suggested options include hanging alfalfa or lucerne in hay nets, providing pecking blocks and scattering feed or grit on the litter for laying hens and turkeys.