ELS Online frequently asked questions
Getting Started
- What is ELS Online?
- How does ELS Online work?
- Who can use ELS Online?
- Can I apply for OELS online?
- Why should I use ELS Online rather than fill in paper forms?
Hardware and Software requirements
Registering to use ELS Online
- How do I register for ELS Online?
- How do I activate my account?
- Do Internet PIN codes expire after a certain time?
- I have not received or have lost my Internet PIN code, how do I get another?
- How do I obtain a new PIN code to use the software application?
- I have lost my User ID code, how do I get another?
- I have lost my Password code, how do I get another?
Downloading and Installing the ELS Online Software
- How do I download the ELS Online software?
- How long will it take to download the ELS Online software?
- How do I install ELS Online?
- How do I run ELS Online?
Completing the application
- How do I know which parcels are included in each CPH?
- What do I do if I have had updated RLR maps which show fewer parcels than earlier versions?
- When should I send in my supporting documents?
- When should I check my parcels are correct?
- What do I do if parcels are missing from my maps after downloading my Farm Details?
- When can I submit my completed application?
- Can I send a printout copy to my local RDS office rather than upload?
- What help will be available to ELS Online users?
Getting Started
What is ELS Online?
It is a software package that enables the preparation of an Entry Level Stewardship (ELS) application for internet submission. It is a secure process that can be used by both individual applicants and agents submitting applications on behalf of their clients. See more information at ELS Online
How does ELS Online work?
Once you have registered on the Government Gateway via www.defra.gov.uk for the ELS Online service you can download the free ELS Online application software from this website onto your PC. Once the software application has been download, it will download information specific to the land you are entering into your ELS application.
Complete your application by drawing maps using the straight forward ELS Online application; all points calculations are completed automatically. When the application is completed print it out for your own records and then submit the form electronically to the ELS Online Team.
Who can use ELS Online?
Anyone who is eligible for ELS. All fields must be RLR registered and the area of your holding must be less than 100 square kilometers. You must have a PC that meets the minimum requirements, please see question 7 below.
ELS Online can be used for 'ELS only' applications. OELS, HLS and joint applications must be completed using paper forms.
ELS Online can be used by anyone who wishes to apply for ELS, either for themselves, or acting as an agent or intermediary for someone else. ELS Online has a particular benefit for agents and intermediaries as it allows them to monitor the status of several applications.
Can I apply for OELS online?
No. Applications for OELS must be made by post.
The need for organic farmers to submit additional documentation makes it sensible for OELS applications to be sent by post. And because there will be far fewer applications from organic farmers than from conventional farmers there is less need for e-applications to help ensure a quick turn round. But we will keep this under review.
Why should I use ELS Online rather than fill in paper forms?
ELS Online automatically calculates your points target and ongoing points total based on the ELS options you choose to carry out. It offers an easy way to see how altering your option choices will affect your points total.
If you apply using traditional paper forms, you will have to use scales from the map to calculate areas and lengths. These are then used to calculate the points total for the ELS options you select, and you will need to make sure you meet the points threshold for acceptance into the scheme. With ELS Online calculations are done automatically, so your application can be processed effectively when you submit it.
ELS Online will also make it easier to prepare neat, accurate application maps. These have to be drawn by hand with a paper application.
Hardware and Software requirements
Is it necessary to have broadband?
No, but it is recommended as the download of the software application is approx. 20Mb in size (~60 minutes to download via a 'dial-up' modem).
Will the software run on my PC ?
The minimum specification of your PC should be:
- Windows 98, 2000, NT or XP
- Internet Explorer 4.0 or Netscape 3.0 or above
- Pentium II or faster processor
- 256MB memory
- 100MB free hard disk space
- Internet access (ELS Online will work with ‘dial-up’ internet access, but this can be very slow – the software application will work much better if you are connected via broadband)
Please note that Apple Macintosh computers are not supported
Is there support for Apple Macintosh computers?
At present there is no support for Apple Macintosh computers.
Registering to use ELS Online
How do I register for ELS Online?
Please contact the ELS Online Team who will register your interest in applying for ELS Online.
How do I activate my account?
Please see Activate your account via the Natural England website.
Do Internet PIN codes expire after a certain time?
No, once generated an Internet PIN code remains valid
I have not received or have lost my Internet PIN code, how do I get another?
Please contact the ELS Online Team who will re-issue your PIN code.
How do I obtain a new PIN code to use the software application?
Please contact the ELS Online Team who will take your details and register your interest. You will then be sent a PIN code by letter to your home address within a few days.
I have lost my User ID code, how do I get another?
Please contact the ELS Online Team who will re-issue your User ID
I have lost my Password code, how do I get another?
Please contact the ELS Online Team.
Downloading and Installing the ELS Online Software
How do I download the ELS Online software?
Please see ELS Online - downloads and supporting information.
How long will it take to download the ELS Online software?
The file is large (about 20MB), which will be acceptable to download if you have Broadband but could take over an hour to download if you are using a 56K/dial-up modem.
How do I install ELS Online?
You should download the software application from the ELS Online - downloads and supporting informationpage on to your hard drive. To install, double-click on the installer icon. Once installed the application software should place a shortcut icon on your Desktop. If you select Run on the NE Website rather then download it will start the installation wizard automatically.
How do I run ELS Online?
Double click on the ELS Online icon that has been placed on your PC desktop
Completing the application
How do I know which parcels are included in each CPH?
Please check your RLR maps you received from RPA to see which fields are included under each CPH
What do I do if I have had updated RLR maps which show fewer parcels than earlier versions?
Any parcels which are not shown on the later versions of the RLR maps may no longer be associated with a CPH. In order to ensure these are included in your application you should add them using their individual land parcel references in the Application Details screen. Note: you must ensure all relevant parcels are included in your application before submitting; you cannot change the application later
When should I send in my supporting documents?
It is recommended that you complete and send in any supporting documents after you have downloaded your farm details and have an application reference. The application reference should be added to all supporting documents before sending to the ELS Online Team.
When should I check my parcels are correct?
It is recommended that you check the maps as soon as your Farm Details have been downloaded as it will be necessary to request a new download if any parcels are missing
What do I do if parcels are missing from my maps after downloading my Farm Details?
Check to ensure that the parcels are actually RLR registered. If the parcels are RLR registered and were included under a CPH it may be necessary to add the individual land parcel references in the Application Details screen.
When can I submit my completed application?
The ELS Online application software is currently undergoing a pilot exercise before full release. If you have been invited to participate in this exercise please submit your application. Otherwise, if you are interested in participating in the pilot please be aware that during this exercise we cannot guarantee service standards. If you would be interested in participating in the pilot exercise please contact the ELS Online testing team on 01905 362709 or 01905 362700.
Can I send a printout copy to my local Natural England office rather than upload?
No, ELS Online should only be used for electronic applications. If you wish to make a paper application you will need to re-apply for one using the correct forms.
What help will be available to ELS Online users?
There will be an ELS Online manual available included in the software application download. In addition, the ELS Online Team at Worcester will be specifically trained in the use of ELS Online and will be able to provide telephone support to on-line applicants.
Page last modified:
9 July, 2008
Page published: 4 January, 2006