THOUSANDS of farmers and food producers throughout England will receive a telephone call from the Rural Payments Agency (RPA) as it aims to ensure that all those who want to claim payments in 2015 can do so.

The single farm payment rules have changed and the Agency is working with Defra to build a new online service to make it as easy as possible for farmers to receive their money. It is offering special support for farmers who cannot access it online.

Mark Grimshaw, RPA boss, said: “We asked 13,000 farmers who had never contacted us digitally – no online application, not even an email – to let us know if they thought they might need extra help to make Basic Payment Scheme claims in 2015.

“To date, we have received just under 4,000 replies and our specially-trained RPA agents are now telephoning all those who responded to help them assess what extra help might be required.”

Access to the new online application and payments system will be via a new Government service called GOV.UK Verify, which proves users are who they say they are. However, a back-up system will be be introduced for those who can’t use Verify. More details will be available via the 0345 603 7777 helpline and via the Verify service, if required.

Mr Grimshaw said: “After speaking with our advisers, many customers have indicated they thought they could get the help they needed from a friend, family member or a business contact.

Others decided to seek advice from a local community or farming support organisation, while some opted to employ a farm agent.

“For those who have decided to seek help elsewhere, we will continue to track their progress to ensure their application is registered online in time for the 2015 application window – which has the usual May 15 deadline without penalties.

“We are also working with farming organisations, charities and community groups to produce a national register of all the support available so farmers can choose the most appropriate help in their area.”

To date, only a small number of farmers contacted have booked to attend a special session at their local RPA-run support centre.

At the moment, we have three trial support centres in Penrith, Carlisle and Exeter, but are looking at another 46 potential sites throughout England, a number of which could be ready to open in the new year.

“We are aiming to ensure that, in most situations, farmers do not have to travel more than 30 miles to their nearest support centre. Sessions are strictly by appointment only – this is so that we can call you to tell you what documents you will need to bring with you to register in full. So please call 0345 603 7777 to make an appointment.”

Anyone who has not heard from the Agency or who has not yet responded to the RPA letter should call the same RPA helpline number.