RED Tractor has now launched its Covid-19 hub on the assurance website.

The hub will be updated with guidance for members as the situation evolves over the coming months.

Introducing the hub on the website, Red Tractor CEO Jim Moseley said:

"It is no exaggeration to say we are facing the greatest health crisis in a generation. 
"During the coming months the core foundations that hold the UK together will be tested – food production being one of them. Shoppers are relying on farmers, food companies and the wider industry to continue as normal wherever possible.
"And our responsibilities as the UK’s largest food and farming assurance scheme, covering 75 per cent of British Agriculture are two-fold:
"To protect the integrity of the Red Tractor, the supply chain and therefore British Agriculture, by ensuring the key principles of the scheme-food safety, traceability, animal welfare and environmental protection are upheld and monitored robustly. 

"To protect the health and safety of our members, assessors, vets and colleagues who govern the scheme, as well as animals and the environment. 

"Throughout this time of unprecedented challenges facing our country, we will continue to monitor government advice and review our processes to address all significant risks, following all biosecurity, good hygiene precautions and social distancing guidelines, as well as any local measures.

"We would also like to take this opportunity to remind all our members of the critical importance of having up-to-date contingency plans in place. So should any member, their family or staff fall ill at this difficult time, there are arrangements which can be initiated that will ensure all farming duties are carried out, including safeguarding the welfare of their animals.
"For our farming members who would like someone to talk to, during this time of uncertainty, the Farming Community Network helplines are open as usual between 7am-11pm on 03000 111 999."

The hub can be found at: https://assurance.redtractor.org.uk/covid-19-hub

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