Assessments advice

1.    Prepare

“Before everything else, getting ready is the secret to success” Henry Ford

It’s kind of an obvious one, but be sure to have read and understood the standards and what is required of you. Also, remember that the standards evolve. So, be aware of amendments and consider any new standards that are in the pipeline.

Being prepared can save you considerable time – and money – in the long run.  Hopefully you will have fewer or even no non-compliances to rectify, and should mean that you will be certified sooner.

But remember, it is important your assessor is impartial – they cannot offer advice.  However, they will tell you what, if any, non-compliances you have and what evidence you will need to submit.

If you are at all unclear about anything, please drop us a line – we’re here to help!

2.    Delegate

“Leaders will be those that empower others” Bill Gates

Choosing the right representative from your team can save you a great deal of time.  The right person will be able to answer any relevant questions and have access to all necessary documents and records.  

3.    Check

“An ounce of prevention, is worth a pound of cure.” Old saying.

Again, it may seem obvious, but it is always worth double checking that you have the necessary documents and records to hand. These include your:

• Veterinary health plan
• Veterinary medicines / livestock treatments record
• Farm policies document(s)
• Stock-keeper training records
• Production records
• DEFRA advisory booklets 

4.    Understand

“Nothing in life is to be feared. It is only to be understood.” Marie Curie

If you have any non-compliances your assessment report will indicate what evidence of rectification is required. If you are at all unsure about the outcome of your assessment or the next steps, please don’t be afraid to ask. 

When submitting evidence, sooner is always better than later. If your certificate is not signed off within 8 weeks, you will have to be reassessed, costing you more time and money. If you have no non-compliances you should receive your certificate by post in 2 – 3 weeks.

“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.” Mahatma Gandhi