UK pig producers are being urged to strengthen their contingency planning against African Swine Fever (ASF) by attending one of 13 specialist workshops running throughout 2025.
Organised by AHDB in partnership with Livetec Systems and the National Pig Association (NPA), the nationwide series of free, in-person workshops is open to all producers – from smallholders to large commercial units – and are delivered by pig veterinary practices.
Miranda Poulson, senior animal health and welfare scientist at AHDB, explains the workshops are designed to prepare the pig sector for the real and rising threat of ASF.
“We’re proud to partner with Livetec Systems and the NPA to deliver this series of hands-on contingency planning workshops, supporting pig producers in becoming better prepared for ASF,” she says.
“Working alongside veterinary practices across England, these face-to-face sessions will help producers collaborate with their vets to develop bespoke, farm-level contingency plans, supporting the industry to be prepared, should an outbreak occur in the UK.”
The first workshop, held last week at Garth Beverly Racecourse, was a resounding success – highlighting the appetite among producers to take a proactive approach to disease risk.
Paul Thompson, clinical director at Garth Vets, who facilitated the event, explains the workshops are focused on helping producers identify clinical signs of disease, understand how ASF spreads, and formulate strategic farm-specific plans.
“Bringing together a diverse mix of producers, from small independents to larger farming operations, there’s something for everyone to take away from these workshops,” he says.
“So far, it seems one of the biggest eye-openers for many has been the importance of safeguarding personal property and homes from movement restrictions – highlighting the need for strategic boundary planning on farms to mitigate risks.”
With funding provided through the AHDB levy, the sessions aim to build producer confidence and ensure a swift, coordinated response in the event of an outbreak.
Ms Poulson adds: “The threat of ASF is real. When it strikes, it strikes hard. That’s why preparation is critical – not just for ASF, but for any notifiable disease like foot-and-mouth.
“These workshops are a practical step in safeguarding the future of pig farms and the wider supply chain. We strongly encourage producers to speak with their vet about booking a place.”
Producers are advised to contact their vet to find out more. If your practice is not currently offering a session, plans are in place to expand training through a ‘train the trainer’ event at the Pig Veterinary Society (PVS) autumn meeting.
To learn more about African Swine Fever, visit: ahdb.org.uk/african-swine-fever
