Alleviating rural hardship

Extra funding this Christmas will aim to combat rural hardship.

Scottish agriculture charity RSABI has been awarded £200,000 to provide emotional, practical and financial support to individuals and their families across rural communities and the agricultural sector.

Announcing the funding, Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing said:

“With the nature of rural life often meaning that individuals and their families can feel isolated at a time of need, it is absolutely vital that there is support available.

“By providing this additional funding to RSABI, they will be able to continue to ensure the well-being of our rural communities by providing emotional, practical and financial support to those who need it. 

“Having listened to various individual stories over recent months, I know the most important thing someone can do when faced with any form of hardship is to put their hand up and say ‘I need help’.

“With rural communities and businesses facing significant uncertainty, I would encourage anyone who may feel they are struggling not to suffer in silence. It is absolutely okay not to be okay over the Christmas period.”

Nina Clancy, Chief Executive of RSABI, said:

“The funding has been awarded at a vital time for RSABI and our thanks go to the Scottish Government for recognising the importance of the work we undertake.

“A key message from RSABI is the importance of recognising and acting on problems as soon as possible as early intervention can prevent a difficult situation deteriorating and becoming much harder to deal with at a later stage.

“Our helpline has never been busier, so it is vital that we are able to step up our resources to respond to the increasing demand. This funding will go some way to helping us achieve this.”

Background

The Royal Scottish Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RSABI) was founded in 1897. RSABI provides financial and practical support and friendship to individuals and their families across a range of occupations with the common theme of working on the land in Scotland.