In December 2021 Miller Research was commissioned by Menter a Busnes to undertake a three-phase evaluation of Arwain DGC ((Defnydd Gwrthfioteg Cyfrifol / Responsible antimicrobial Use). A baseline evaluation report was completed in July 2022, and an interim evaluation report was completed in December 2022, with the final evaluation completed in June 2023.  

Arwain DGC was a programme led by Menter a Busnes in partnership with Aberystwyth Veterinary School, Welsh Lamb and Beef Producers (WLBP), Iechyd Da and the University of Bristol. The programme focused on supporting the responsible use of antimicrobials by sheep, beef, and dairy farmers, as well as by equine owners. The programme was aimed at addressing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) through a wide range of measures, centred around raising awareness of AMR, promoting more responsible antimicrobial use (AMU), improving prescribing practices and standards among veterinarians, trialling innovative approaches to monitoring AMU and AMR, and promoting biosecurity and improved animal health practices on farms. 

The project was funded through the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) Rural Development Programme, under the specific strand of the Co-operation and Supply Chain Development Scheme. Arwain DGC was delivered between September 2021 and June 2023. 

Our Evaluation 

Miller Research undertook the evaluation of Arwain DGC to assess progress against objectives, and to measure its outcomes and impacts. The reports also made recommendations on ongoing processes (baseline and interim), and future initiatives (final). The evaluation involved a close review of monitoring data and documentation, and qualitative interviews with key stakeholders at various stages of delivery. A key element of the evaluation was fieldwork with programme beneficiaries, including with farmers engaged with various strands of the programme, wider industry stakeholders, and vets and front of house veterinary staff impacted by the Veterinary Prescribing Champions (VPC) Network. 

We determined that Arwain DGC was well managed, delivered effectively and appropriately designed to meet the challenges faced by AMR in the livestock sector. The evaluation found that Arwain DGC had achieved all of its intended outcomes and made impressive contributions to the understanding of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and antimicrobial use (AMU) in Wales. 

For more information, contact Nick.