UK charity The Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI) has launched a ‘return to school’ grant to help cover the cost of school uniforms, P.E. kit and other equipment as a response to what it describes as “unacceptable financial choices” facing farming families in the run up to the new school year.
Citing research by consumer finance website NimbleFins, Caron Whaley, RABI director of services, says: “Worryingly, almost 70 per cent of parents across the UK are concerned about the expense of covering the cost of return-to-school clothes and equipment.
“The farming community has been heavily impacted by rapidly rising costs. The added pressure of buying clothes and equipment, for the new academic year, can add significant stress. These financial worries can have a detrimental impact on mental wellbeing of the entire family. We want to support farming people through this difficult time.
“Nobody should face tough choices about where to cut back on other essentials and we are here to support you with a £500 grant per child.
“Callers to the helpline will be put in contact with their local support manager who will guide them through a short and simple application process.”
Established in 1860, RABI was founded on the belief that every member of the farming community matters and should never have to face difficulties alone. The organisation develops services to address the often unexpected and unfortunate challenges that farmers sometimes face, either whilst working or when they are no longer active in the sector – as a result of ill health, bereavement, or retirement.
Grant applications can be made throughout July and August, start the process by making a call to RABI’s 24/7 helpline on 0800 188 4444.
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