A new round of DEFRA funded FETF grants for animal health and welfare items now includes up to 50 percent funding towards battery powered clipping handpieces.
FETF331CA offers £136 towards the cost of a new clipper which can be used for sheep and cattle either on farm or as a contracted service. Commenting on the grant, Heiniger managing director Ashley Musgrave said:
“Clipping is an essential part of livestock health and welfare. This grant represents an opportunity for anyone looking to improve the health and wellbeing of their stock to save a significant amount and invest in a quality handpiece that will help them to do so.”
In 2025 Heiniger launched the Xcell, a battery powered clipper suitable for sheep and cattle.
“The Xcell is a dual speed clipper that can be supplied with two batteries to help even the most demanding users to clip all day. The high-speed unit can run at 2,500/2,800 double strokes a minute whilst remaining quiet with very low vibration levels. It qualifies for the FETF grant, which stipulates a contribution being given to only cordless devices with at least two batteries and a minimum power of 150 watts,” adds Mr Musgrave.
For farms using corded handpieces, the grant offers an opportunity to purchase a cordless, mobile solution which will expand the number of applications.
“The grant only applies to cordless handpieces. This can be seen as an opportunity for farms with mains operated clippers to invest in a battery powered alternative that can be carried anywhere to enable easy, small tasks like dagging, belly clipping lambs or trimming cattle to take blood tests without the need to round up stock,” he says.
The grant stipulates that both farmers and contractors can apply, which will make it appealing for those operating as contract sheep shearers or for farms looking to invest in new equipment.
“Contractors need a handpiece that is going to stand up to constant and prolonged use. It is also important that backup is provided, which is why Heiniger offers a three year warranty, and a UK-based service centre to repair handpieces and sharpen blades,” he says.
The new FETF application window opens on 17 March and will close on 28 April.
“It is a great opportunity, but a short window, so we implore all who qualify to take advantage and use the funds to invest in the best equipment to ensure livestock are managed safely and efficiently,” concludes Mr Musgrave.
