The British Pig Executive (BPEX) is urging veterinary surgeons to promote a 'top five' of farm services which will be available to pig farmers that sign up to BPEX's new national pig health scheme.

The Pig Health Improvement Project (PHIP) became a national scheme in July following regional projects in Yorkshire, Humberside, East Anglia and the East Midlands. BPEX says it is now stepping up a gear as much of the infrastructure has been put in place and clear membership benefits are available.

BPEX's Vet Project Manager Helen Clarke said: "The PHIP takes a collaborative, action-orientated approach to reducing the incidence of disease in pig herds to ensure the long-term sustainability of pig farming. The role of vets in delivering the scheme is key.

"We need to achieve a high level of uptake - and are looking to achieve sign-up from farms that together represent at least 90% of sows nationally. And that's why we are keen for farmers to take advantage of these five services that deliver benefits at farm level."

The services consist of:

• Free BPHS abattoir reports, which BPEX says are an invaluable tool for vets and pig producers in identifying sub-clinical disease which is not always easy to spot on the farm.
• Access to local health mapping, which raises awareness about any pig health related concerns in a farm's locality.
• A bespoke biosecurity action plan which vets will develop with farmers, using a unique questionnaire to assess biosecurity on their units.
• Disease testing which farmers can access with the help of their vet.
• BPEX regional support offered by dedicated regional staff who offer guidance to help every unit and group of producers to get the most out of PHIP.

Sign-up is free for producers. To find out how vets can support the scheme, visit http://www.pighealth.org.uk/ and contact BPEX on 02476 478877.

PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vets.