Rural Payments and Services

In 2025, we introduced a calving interval condition for the Scottish Suckler Beef Support Scheme (SSBSS).

The calving interval of a cow is the number of days from one calving to her next calving.

We want to support farmers and crofters to be productive and to help tackle climate change. Reducing your calving interval can help to achieve this.

The calving interval of your herd is a useful measure of beef production.

Why is a longer calving interval a problem? It means you will have more time when your herd is creating costs without helping to produce beef.

It also means you will have more time when your herd is not producing beef, but is creating greenhouse gases.

Research by the SRUC shows that excess associated emissions are falling as beef producers reduce calving intervals.

Calves are now only eligible for a SSBSS payment if:

• their dam has a calving interval threshold of 410 days or less, or
• if the calf is the first registered birth associated with that dam

The 410 day calving interval will remain the same in 2027.

You can read more about the rules in our Frequently Asked Questions.

The calving interval conditionality does not apply to some small herd producers.

We have established a derogation for the calving interval condition to any businesses claiming 10 calves or fewer in a scheme year.

This will mean that those claiming support for 10 calves or fewer in a scheme year will not need to meet the calving interval requirement.

You can read more about SSBSS on scheme guidance page.

This includes FAQs. These will help answer some of the questions you might have about the details of the scheme.

MyHerdStats is a free tool that shows performance indicators for your herd. This gives you the chance to find opportunities to make your herd more efficient.

If you have any questions and would like to speak to someone, you can contact your local area office.