We're helping struggling farmers to see the sun once more
The farmer said: “You’ve no idea how much it meant to me to see a cheque arrive, it was such a weight off my mind. All I could see was a heap of bills on the table.”
Another farmer said after meeting the trained and confidential welfare officer: “She went through all the paperwork and helped us put together a plan to pay off our outstanding bills. Most of all, Sally listened. RABI helped me to focus on the farm and walk through the fog to see the sun and hear the birds”
The Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution is a welfare charity for farmers and farmworkers' families which can change lives for the better.
Every case is different and the help is wide ranging. People can get into financial difficulties through no fault of their own, perhaps through illness or an accident. The extreme weather we have experienced this year has seen a rise in calls and referrals on the Freephone Number 0808 281 9490 by over 66 per cent on this time last year.
The long cold winter months which were followed by a hot dry summer has been difficult for livestock farmers in particular, many having to offer their winter feed to supplement the animals. The worrying time will be later this winter, with barns depleted of good quality silage and hay.
Watching the combines gathering the crops of grain, and listening to farmers, the yields of corn and straw have been of varying quantity and quality.
RABI is able to listen and help in many ways. Do not struggle on, it always takes courage to ask. When you know that the worry is causing sleepless nights, constant tiredness, not eating properly and not making time for family life, it is time to talk to someone. The relief of “chatting as we leant on the gate” can give a family a new start again.
We are so fortunate in Shropshire to have a caring community. We would like to thank the friends at Minsterley Show, Stapeley Vets and Rea Valley Tractors, after we raised over £700.
So far this year in the county grants of £24,255.41 have been given to 31 individuals or families. Nationally RABI from January to July has given out £237,000 to working farmers and their dependants.
The kindness of many organisations raising funds is greatly appreciated. We look forward to welcoming everyone to the Whitchurch Civic coffee morning on September 14 from 9.15am.
If you would to know more please contact RABI regional manager Kate Jones on 07876 492 839.
Christine Downes is a Shropshire RABI committee member
