Charity group helps farming community

Farming’s oldest welfare charity issued £1.87million in grants to those connected to the farming industry who ere in financial hardship during 2015.

A total of 1,340 individuals and families received support from the institution, with the charity – whose patron is HM The Queen – helping farming people to claim more than £390,000 in state benefits and tax credits.

In 2015 RABI also paid out £156,000 to working farmers to help them cope with such things as illness, flooding and animal disease.

And £221,885 was also given towards clearing domestic bills, £122,039 for disability equipment and adaptations, £48,366 for home repairs and improvements and £263,204 to 200 individuals and families in Wales.

RABI helps working farmers, farmworkers and their families who rely on the industry for their main source of income. Help can also be given to retired workers and their dependants.

CEO Paul Burrows said: “For working farmers suffering financial hardship due to an unforeseen crisis, we can provide grants towards relief staff.

“Our message is simple: If you or someone you know works or has worked in farming and is in need of help, call our freephone helpline on 0808 281 9490. Your call will be handled with discretion.”