Getting started
This section gives you the details of how to begin applying for Mid Tier.
To get started it’s important that you do the following in the order we’ve listed them:
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If you want to request a Mid Tier application pack, read How to request a Mid Tier or Higher Tier application pack and use this guidance to follow 1 to 3 below; then
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after you receive the application pack follow 4 below.
To receive Countryside Stewardship (CS) payments, you must be registered in the Rural Payments service. To find out how to do this, read Rural Payments service: registering and updating your details on GOV.UK. If you do not have access to the internet, call us on 03000 200 301 and we’ll try to help.
You must check that your personal details, business details, permission levels and digital maps are up to date, and update them if needed before requesting your pack. You may find the Countryside Stewardship mapping guidance for applicants and RLE1 guidance useful, which are on GOV.UK.
If you want to apply online through Rural Payments, read section 4.1 of the Mid Tier manual and the How to apply online for Mid Tier guidance.
If you want to apply using an application pack, you can download an application pack or request one to be emailed to you from 8 February to 5 July 2022 using the Rural Payments service.
If you do not have access to the internet, you can call us on 03000 200 301 until 27 May to request an application pack.
If you have requested a pack online or intend to apply through Rural Payments, you will need to request a HEFER from the HEFER portal. Read section 4.10.2 of the Mid Tier manual to find out how to do this.
If you do not have access to the internet and are requesting an application pack over the phone, we will request the HEFER for you and send it to you as soon as it is available.
All the guidance and information you need for Countryside Stewardship in 2022 is on GOV.UK:
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search for the Countryside Stewardship (CS) Mid Tier and Wildlife Offers manual
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for information about options and items available, the evidence you need for your application, and whether you need to submit it with your application or keep it until you’re asked for it, search for Countryside Stewardship grants.
If you cannot access GOV.UK you can email or call us to request a paper copy of the manual.
You can read guidance about Agri-environment agreements and BPS on GOV.UK. Search for Agri-environment schemes (CS and ES) and BPS.
Remember, it’s your responsibility to make sure that:
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you meet the scheme rules
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all the eligible land included in your application is correct, to the best of your knowledge.