Mentera, Wales’ leading independent economic development company, is proud to announce its successful bid to continue leading the Welsh Government's £2 million investment in tackling antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in animal health and the environment. This significant funding will support the next phase of the Arwain DGC (Defnydd Gwrthficrobaidd Cyfrifol / Responsible Antimicrobial Use) programme, building on the substantial progress achieved over the past five years.

Huw Irranca-Davies MS, Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, has announced the continuation of the Arwain DGC programme, recognising its proven track record in delivering impactful AMR controls. Mentera, alongside its consortium partners, including the University of Bristol, Aberystwyth University, Iechyd Da, and WLBP (Welsh Lamb & Beef Producers), will spearhead the implementation of the new Animal AMR Control Plan for Wales (2025-2029), aligning with the UK National Action Plan.

Dewi Hughes, Head of Animal Health Services at Mentera said,

“We are honoured to be entrusted with this vital work. This investment allows us to continue to build upon the strong foundation of the Arwain DGC programme. We are committed to fostering a collaborative environment, bringing together vets, farmers, and researchers, to drive meaningful change. The focus on innovation, data-driven approaches, and knowledge exchange, including the new grant opportunities for study tours and application of innovation, will be instrumental in safeguarding the effectiveness of antibiotics for future generations.”

The £2 million investment will support key initiatives, including:

• Veterinary Prescribing Champions Network: Expanding and enhancing the network of veterinary practices across Wales, promoting best practices in antimicrobial stewardship.
• Antimicrobial Usage (AMU) Data Collection: Continuing the collection and analysis of AMU data from at least 4,500 Welsh farms, providing valuable insights into usage patterns.
• AMR Surveillance: Monitoring AMR in cattle and sheep through on-farm sampling, contributing to a deeper understanding of AMR transmission.
• AMR Academy: Establishing a dedicated academy to provide targeted training and experiences on AMR to veterinarians, farmers, and future agricultural professionals.
• Innovation Grants: Providing opportunities for veterinarians and farmers to apply for grants to support investment in innovative techniques and technologies that reduce the need for antibiotics in their practices and farms.
• Nuffield Scholarship: Sponsoring a Nuffield Scholarship on Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) related topics.
• International Study Tours: Facilitating study tours for farmers, veterinarians, and future farmers to learn from international best practices in AMR management.

Dewi continued:

“Our goal is to continue to position Wales as a global leader in the fight against AMR. By nurturing collaboration, promoting innovation, and sharing knowledge, we can ensure that antibiotics remain effective for future generations.”

Arwain DGC has already achieved significant outcomes in its previous phases, including:

• Capturing AMU data from thousands of Welsh farms, representing a substantial portion of the livestock sector.
• Demonstrating the impact of innovative technologies, such as automated footbath systems and the use of Artificial Intelligence, in reducing antibiotic use and improving animal health.
• Gaining national and international recognition for its best practices, including the Veterinary Prescribing Champions Network, which was cited in the UK Government's National Action Plan.

The Arwain DGC programme will continue to evolve, adapting to the dynamic challenges of AMR and embracing new technologies and strategies. Further information about the programme and grant opportunities will be available on the Arwain website in due course.