Rabi and Rsabi support farmers during winter with appeal
© Tim Scrivener As the chill of winter settles across much of the country, two rural charities are working to support and safeguard the wellbeing of farming communities, ensuring they have the help they need during this challenging season.
This winter, The Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (Rabi) and the Royal Scottish Agricultural Benevolent Institution (Rsabi) are collaborating through the Winter Wellbeing appeal to raise funds that provide vital assistance, helping farmers manage the challenges of winter, from heating homes to covering farming costs.
Rabi and Rsabi are two of the UK’s longest-serving farming charities, providing vital support to farming families across England, Wales, and Scotland.
See also: Knitters raise awareness for Scots rural charity Rsabi
Founded in 1860 and 1897 respectively, they have been helping farmers, farmworkers, their families, and retired farmers for more than a century.
The money raised is split equally between the two charities, ensuring those most in need receive assistance.
Lee Krawczyk, head of communications at Rabi, explains: “In winter, the challenges of farming are magnified.
“From feeding livestock in freezing conditions to managing soaring costs, farmers often face impossible choices.
“Rabi’s practical, emotional, and financial support provides critical relief when it is needed most.”
Shifting needs
In recent years, the charities have seen a significant shift in the types of support needed.
While financial aid has always been a key service, increasing numbers of farmers are seeking emotional and practical assistance, particularly during the harsh winter months.
Each charity runs a helpline. Rabi operates from its Oxford headquarters, with a team of 25 staff.
Rsabi, based in Scotland, receives around 200 calls a month, and supported 750 farming families in 2023 alone.
When someone reaches out, they are connected with a welfare officer who understands the unique challenges of farming life.
A regional officer is then assigned to conduct an in-person visit and assess the situation before a welfare committee reviews the case and approves the necessary support.
Farmers Weekly is partnering with this year’s Winter Wellbeing appeal.
Launched at the Farmers Weekly Awards night in early October, more than £7,600 was raised to kickstart the fundraising efforts.
To support the Winter Wellbeing appeal or request assistance, visit the donation platform or contact Rabi’s 24-hour helpline on 0800 188 4444, or Rsabi at 0808 1234 555.
Supporting Scotland’s farmers: Inside Rsabi’s welfare work
Shona Milne, a 54-year-old welfare case officer at Rsabi, is deeply committed to supporting Scotland’s farmers and crofters through tough times.
Based in north-east Scotland, Shona has been with Rsabi for three years, providing vital emotional, financial, and practical assistance.
“Every day is different, which is one of the reasons I love my job,” she says, describing a typical day that might include taking calls on the helpline, managing casework, or offering emotional support.
Shona works with a wide range of people, from farmers in their prime to retired crofters, helping them via phone calls, emails, texts, video calls, and on-farm visits.
She tailors her communication to suit each person, understanding that one size doesn’t fit all.
Requests for support surge
While Shona’s official hours are nine-to-five, but she often works evenings or early mornings to accommodate farmers’ unpredictable schedules.
“We deal with a lot of people struggling with mental health issues, financial worries, and work-related stress,” she explains.
Shona, who joined the charity in 2021, says there has been a surge in requests for mental health support.
“Demand for counselling has increased,” she notes, adding that Rsabi’s quick access to these services is a lifeline for many.
One particularly memorable experience stands out. Shona recalls a farmer she spoke to who was in a very dark place when they first connected.
“He was suicidal, but we were able to arrange counselling, business advice, and provide ongoing emotional support,” she says.
Eighteen months later, they met again at the Royal Highland Show, and Shona saw just how far he had come.
“Meeting him again was something that will stay with me forever,” she says.
Winter challenge
Winter brings its own challenges, particularly for farmers who are already feeling isolated.
“The shorter days can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and despair,” Shona says, which often means clients need more frequent support.
“There’s an awareness that people may need additional contact or assistance.”
Shona’s role is all about providing tailored support to help clients access financial aid and emotional assistance.
“We support clients through the process, making sure it’s right for them,” she says.
As winter sets in, she knows the need for this support will become even more urgent for some.
The most rewarding part of her job, she says, is seeing the difference her help can make.
“Being able to provide help and seeing how it can change someone’s life for the better is incredibly fulfilling,” she says.
In a sector where mental health is a growing concern, Shona’s work at Rsabi ensures that farmers and crofters across Scotland get the help they need, whether it’s navigating the toughest months or facing ongoing struggles.
Staying healthy as the nights draw in
Eat balanced meals rich in vegetables for vitamins and minerals; homemade soups or stews are easy to freeze for a quick, nutritious option.
Take multivitamins, especially vitamin C to help shorten colds, and vitamin D to support bone, muscle, and teeth health during winter.
Stay warm by layering clothes and wearing a cozy hat and gloves.
If you have a respiratory condition, cover your chest and neck with a snood or scarf to protect against cold air.
Ensure you have enough fuel to heat your home and check hot water bottles for wear.
Get your winter vaccinations if you’re over 65 or have a respiratory condition. NHS invitations are sent, or you can arrange them locally.
Stay socially connected with family and friends and plan activities to brighten the long, dark winter nights.
Source: Rabi and Rsabi Winter Wellbeing team