Farming can be a lonely occupation and at times of difficulty facing the financial and emotional challenge can be hard. As an industry however, farming is fortunate to have an extensive support network through the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (R.A.B.I.) that provides welfare assistance when and where it is needed

While its role is often acknowledged however, it is perhaps unfortunate that it is often underappreciated until the point when it is needed.

As a farmer-owned business Openfield is acutely aware of the difficulties that poor harvests, volatile markets and increasing input costs have had on farming and the families that support it. In response Openfield has expanded its range of risk management products to better insulate farmers from the fluctuations in market prices. It has also extended the terms of its advanced payments service so growers can make purchases of necessary inputs or make finance payments by off-setting the value of their grain against the cash advance while avoiding flat selling.

These measures have been welcomed by Openfield members, but it was felt that in conjunction with its logistics partner DHL, the co-operative could do more to promote the good work of R.A.B.I. in supporting the farming community. To raise awareness of R.A.B.I.’s work, Openfield/DHL offered to brand its own-fleet lorries with the charity’s logo, contact details and purpose. This was duly accepted and the logo has been given a prominent placing on Openfield trailers to support the work of the charity.

“R.A.B.I. has a laudable desire ‘to reach and support farming people in need’ and we felt we could do more to promote that worthwhile objective,” says Openfield director of marketing and origination, Richard Jenner.

“As with many charities it tends to receive publicity predominately in times of crisis, but the services R.A.B.I. offers make it more than just a crisis network. The pressures of running a farm business are varied and it is often assistance with tasks such as applying for grants or navigating state benefits that are needed most. R.A.B.I. is a specialist in delivering this type of help,” he adds.

R.A.B.I. offers support to people of all ages and is tailored to meet individual needs. It includes, for example, advice on state benefits, payment of one-off or regular grants, replacement of essential household items, and funding for specialist equipment.

In addition to paying for relief farm staff and training to help people develop skills they can use to boost their income, the charity can also help with care-home fees and home-help costs, and runs two residential homes.

R.A.B.I. chief executive Paul Burrows welcomed the support of Openfield in helping it reach farmers and farm workers.

“R.A.B.I. would like to thank Openfield for their generous and much-valued support in branding their grain lorries with our logo and message. We have seen a 100% rise in calls year-on-year, and this year to date have helped almost five times as many working farmers as last year, giving out over £300,000 in grants to them. There is as much need for the support we’re able to provide as ever and Openfield’s help in raising awareness and support is valued enormously.”