R.A.B.I will be receiving a £75,000 donation from the NFU Mutual Charitable Trust to provide support to the farming community affected by the Coronavirus.  The NFU Mutual Charitable Trust is donating a total of £739,000 to nine charities after research shows nearly three quarters of people are feeling more isolated since the UK went into lockdown.

Alicia Chivers, Chief Executive, said: “We are immensely grateful for the donation from the NFU Mutual Charitable Trust which will help us continue to deliver our support to those affected by this dreadful pandemic.  We know that many across farming are already facing significant challenges as they continue to cope with  issues such as the immediate and longer-term impacts of extreme weather  and the continued uncertainties around EU Exit.  We predict that the effects of the Coronavirus pandemic in addition to these pre-existing challenges will have long-term impacts on the wellbeing of our community and we will be working closely with our partners to deliver joined-up support.”

Early in April, the NFU Mutual pledged £750,000 to the NFU Mutual Charitable Trust as part of a support package for the benefit of its members and communities affected by the Coronavirus. Additional donations will be distributed by the NFU Mutual Charitable Trust to further this support over the coming months and, by the end of the year, it is expected that the Trust’s overall donations during 2020 will reach £1m.

Lindsay Sinclair, Group Chief Executive of NFU Mutual, said: “We understand how isolation is affecting people and families, and that our members need these services now more than ever. The emotional and practical support offered by these charities will be vital for all our communities at this challenging time.

“Our members have told us that loneliness, the strain of juggling home and work, financial pressures, lack of broadband and access to general amenities, is impacting every inch of their lives and leading to feelings of heightened anxiety and fear.

“As a result of Covid-19, we know that there are extra demands on charities, which is why we want to help them take care of the ‘now,’ as well as the future financial health of their organisation.”

This generous donation will make a tangible difference to the lives of many who come to R.A.B.I for support, but more help is needed. If you would like to make a donation, please do so at www.justgiving.com/rabi