News
We’re looking for farmers & land managers to join our Grant Assessment Panel
Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) is a Defra funded programme supporting farmers and land managers across England’s National Parks and National Landscapes. The programme has been running since 2021 and we’re delighted that it has recently been extended for a further three years, from April 2026 to March 2029.
Through FiPL, the Shropshire Hills National Landscape team offers grants to support projects that deliver real benefits for nature, climate, people and place. Grants over £10,000 are considered by a Local Assessment Panel, made up of farming/land managing representatives alongside representatives from a range of relevant organisations and we are inviting applications from farmers and land managers who would like to be part of this process.
Panel members should have a good understanding of the delivery of nature, climate and public benefits by farming and managing land in the Shropshire Hills. Panel members will be required to undertake training and follow guidance, read a significant number of applications and attend Panel meetings for decision-making (up to every 6-8 weeks). This is a formal role with responsibility for awarding contractual grants through Shropshire Council as accountable body, and is governed by Defra guidance. There is a process for any declaration of interests. It is essentially a voluntary role but non-salaried members are able to claim a set contribution towards costs.
If you are passionate about farming, land management and the future of the Shropshire Hills, and would like to help support this national programme locally, we would love to hear from you.
Deadline for applications is Monday 23rd February 2026.
Download the short application form and Terms of Reference which gives more information about how the Panel is run. Please return completed application forms to joy.howells@shropshire.gov.uk.
If you would like to discuss this further before applying please ring Joy on 01743 257871.
Successful applicants will be encouraged to attend the next Local Assessment Panel meeting, likely to be held on 28th April 2026 either in Bishop’s Castle or Craven Arms.
Published by Shropshire Hills National Landscape on