WITH many people in the agricultural industry affected by rising energy costs and the cost-of-living crisis, RSABI has seen its spend on 'Help for Heating' grants almost double since last year.

The organisation, which supports people in Scottish agriculture, is urging those involved in farming and crofting to make the most of the grants and support services available to them, as the cost-of-living crisis continues to put significant pressure on the sector.

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The charity’s financial support scheme for heating is available for farmers, crofters and others working in, or retired from, agriculture who are struggling to absorb the rapidly rising costs of heating bills.

Grant payments start at £300 and are available to farmers and crofters to claim through the initiative, which is designed to help those who require support to heat their homes.

Help for Heating applicants are eligible to receive the funding if they are associated with the agriculture industry, spending more than 10% of their household income on heating costs and finding it difficult to afford essentials like food and clothing.

RSABI’s welfare manager, Chris McVey, said: “These are exceptional times and we’ve already seen demand for Help for Heating payments increase significantly.

“We encourage any farmers or crofters, or others involved in Scottish agriculture, who are struggling with rising costs to please get in touch. Our team will take you through a straightforward application process and we might be able to help you in other ways too.”

McVey added: “We know there will be many households out there who were managing, but with the cost-of-living crisis, increased home energy costs and increased input costs, financial pressure is growing which we know causes stress and has a negative impact on individuals’ mental health.”

“In cases where finances have become really difficult, we can also very 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,” he pointed out.

The charity is also offering ongoing financial support through its annual beneficiary scheme, where people in need and who meet the support criteria, receive regular payments to help top-up their income.

To apply or find out more information, visit the RSABI website www.rsabi.org.uk, where a 24 hour webchat service is available, or to chat to a case officer, call the RSABI freephone Helpline on 0808 1234 555.