The UK government publishes statutory welfare codes for all major farmed species, providing detailed guidance on housing, husbandry, health and behavioural needs.
The welfare code system represents the UK government's attempt to translate animal welfare science into practical farm guidance. The codes have improved significantly in recent years, incorporating behavioural needs and positive welfare indicators alongside basic health requirements. However, the enforcement system remains under-resourced - with relatively few farm inspections per year relative to the number of farms. Civil society and farm assurance scheme inspections often play a larger practical role in driving compliance than government enforcement alone.