If you keep livestock in the UK — whether cattle, sheep, pigs, poultry, or horses—you may already have come across the term SQP. But many farmers are still unsure what the role involves or how an farm SQP can support them day to day. In reality, these professionals are becoming increasingly vital within the farming community.
An SQP, or Suitably Qualified Person, is a trained and accredited animal medicines adviser who is legally permitted to prescribe and supply certain veterinary medicines under the Veterinary Medicines Regulations. When they focus on agricultural species, they are often known as Farm SQPs.
While not vets, Farm SQPs fill an important frontline role in promoting responsible medicine use and supporting the health and welfare of livestock. They are registered with AMTRA (the Animal Medicines Training Regulatory Authority) and must complete rigorous training, examinations, and ongoing CPD to maintain their status. This ensures their knowledge stays up to date with changes in legislation, local disease challenges, and best practice in parasite control.
What Can a Farm SQP Do?
Farm SQPs are authorised to prescribe and supply POM‑VPS and NFA‑VPS medicines, which commonly include:
- Wormers for cattle and sheep
- Flukicides and parasite treatments
- Coccidiostats and certain poultry medicines
- External parasite control products, such as pour‑ons for flies and lice
But their role goes far beyond supplying products. A Farm SQP is trained to assess the needs of a flock or herd, give tailored parasite‑control advice, interpret faecal egg counts, and help farmers reduce anthelmintic resistance — a growing challenge, particularly in sheep systems. Their practical, accessible guidance can have a real impact on long‑term animal health and farm efficiency.
At Alnorthumbria Farm Vets, we are proud to have three qualified SQPs available to support farmers with day‑to‑day medicine advice and long‑term planning. This includes Jess, who has recently achieved her SQP qualification and brings a fresh, enthusiastic approach to livestock health support.
Alongside our experienced team members, Matthew and Kath, she provides farmers with informed, up‑to‑date guidance on responsible medicine use, seasonal parasite challenges, and choosing the right products for their stock. Having three SQPs on hand means farmers can access expert advice quickly, without always needing a veterinary appointment — while still ensuring treatment decisions are safe, legal, and evidence‑based.
Farm SQPs work closely with vets, not instead of them, helping ensure medicines are used responsibly and animals receive the care they need. As a practical, approachable source of expertise, they are an invaluable support for the farming community — and we are lucky to have a strong team right here in Alnorthumbria.
You can learn more about SQPs at What is an SQP? (amtra.org.uk)