WITH temperatures dropping as low as -13C in parts of Scotland, agriculture charity RSABI is reminding farmers and crofters of its Help for Heating grants, available to those who may be struggling to heat their homes.

The support scheme offers payments starting at £300 and is simple and quick to apply for.

Many farming and crofting people live in homes that are typically older, with property types that can be difficult to insulate properly and costly to heat – particularly challenging when the temperatures start to fall.

The charity is urging people who are struggling to pay to heat their homes during these extreme weather conditions to find out about the grants along with other initiatives and support services on offer.

RSABI welfare manager Chris McVey said: “Our Help for Heating grants are available to farmers, crofters, and others working in, or retired from, agriculture who are struggling with the rising costs of heating bills.

“Grants starting at £300 are available to those who are finding it difficult to afford essentials like food and clothing, and meet our simple assessment criteria. Our team is on hand to take you through the straightforward application process and can advise on other ways we might be able to help too, as well as highlighting organisations which can give additional support, such as providing energy-efficiency advice for your home.

“In cases where finances have become really difficult, we can quickly arrange a pre-paid debit card to pay for grocery shopping and we can also arrange purchases where household goods break down and people are struggling to pay for replacement items.”

RSABI is also encouraging people in the farming community to stay vigilant and look out for those who may be struggling, via its #KeepTalking campaign.

“A conversation with those around you could really help us raise awareness of the services on offer to ensure those struggling to stay warm in their homes know that support is available, particularly older people and those living on their own,” said Mr McVey.

“As temperatures plummet, it’s more important than ever that we look out for each other to ensure people are keeping warm and safe.”

In addition to its Help for Heating scheme, RSABI offers ongoing financial support through an Annual Beneficiary scheme, where anyone in need who meets the support criteria can receive regular payments to help top up their income.

Please visit the RSABI website www.rsabi.org.uk to find out more or, to chat with a member of the team, call the freephone Helpline on 0808 1234 555 which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week – calls won’t show up on phone bills.

All enquiries are completely confidential.