Identifying barriers to the sustainable control of gastro-intestinal nematodes in sheep: a social science perspective

Many farmers rely on anthelmintics to control gastrointestinal nematodes in sheep. In response to concerns about rising levels of anthelmintic resistance reported in countries around the world, current advice is to adopt more sustainable practices. A small scale survey of farmers was used to inform group discussions with farmers, veterinarians and anthelmintic prescribers, to better understand barriers to the adoption of sustainable gastro-intestinal nematode control in sheep flocks across the United Kingdom. Thematic analysis of the discussions identified four barriers to change: not seeing the need for change; lack of specific information and support in implementing changes on farm; lack of confidence in the new approaches; and practical obstacles such as time and cost. Nevertheless, there were examples of sustainable parasite control with some farmers making changes to their habitual practices, typically with the support of their veterinarian or Suitably Qualified Person (SQP). We reflect on the findings through the lens of the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation as drivers of Behaviour model (COM-B model). This draws attention to the need for a process of knowledge exchange that allows advice to be tailored to individual farms and makes use of farmer skills and experiences, rather than expecting farmers to follow generic advice.