A review of the current state of sheep welfare in the UK highlighting progress achieved and the key welfare priorities requiring continued attention.
Sheep welfare in the UK has seen genuine improvements driven by research, farmer education, and assurance scheme requirements. Pain recognition and management for lameness and routine procedures has improved. Lameness prevalence, while still high, has been reduced in herds committed to the Five-Point Lameness Plan. Anthelmintic resistance management through targeted selective treatment is increasingly adopted. However, significant welfare challenges remain. Neonatal mortality from hypothermia, starvation, and trauma remains high, particularly in upland extensive systems. Clostridial disease prevention through vaccination is inconsistently adopted. Internal parasite control faces an escalating resistance crisis. Continued investment in farmer training, research, and welfare monitoring is needed to address remaining welfare challenges.