Animal and Plant Health Agency, whose responsibilities include monitoring wellbeing of livestock and ensuring standards are met, is interested in software that could help prepare for encounters with angry farmers

The government body responsible for regulating and enforcing animal welfare laws has unveiled plans to invest in software that could help frontline inspectors improve their people skills.

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) – an executive agency of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs – has published a commercial planning notice outlining its ambition to deploy a new “software communications tool”.

The notice explains that the tool in question would be deployed with the aim of helping staff prepare for difficult encounters in their work – potentially including those who may be in breach of regulations.

“APHA is seeking software solutions to enhance staff communication and soft skills,” the notice says. “Our diverse workforce-including inspectors, scientists, and customer service teams-regularly interacts with stakeholders such as farmers and livestock keepers, where clear and empathetic communication is vital. We aim to procure tools that allow staff to practice real-life scenarios, identify early signs of escalation, and apply effective strategies to manage challenging interactions. This investment will help us build confidence, strengthen relationships, and deliver exceptional customer service.”

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The agency – which also undertakes regulatory work on behalf of the Scottish and Welsh Governments – is currently undertaking a request for information process. During this procedure, potential suppliers are invited to provide details of current products available that might meet the APHA’s needs, as well as insights into costs and other requirements for deployment. Firms interested in participating have until 19 January to do so, and responses will inform any subsequent procurement undertaken by the agency.

The notice suggests that APHA ultimately hopes to enter into a three-year contract with a software provider in May 2026 – although the document adds that “dates are just indicative”.

As well as regulating the welfare of animals and plants, the agency also has responsibilities including monitoring potential novel diseases or pests affecting UK crops or livestock, as well as supporting international animal and plant trade and operating the licensing and registration regime for endangered species.

Headquartered in Weybridge in Surrey, APHA employs almost 3,500 people, according to the latest data from Defra.