Addington Fund has launched a 2025 dry weather emergency grant, with input from the NFU, for vulnerable farmers struggling to feed stock due to the ongoing drought. The charity may be able to help with a one-off grant or supply of feed/fodder or straw to help prevent animals from suffering from lack of feed or bedding.
NFU Deputy President David Exwood said: “The opening of Addington Fund's emergency grant for the most in need farmers clearly demonstrates the seriousness of the situation for those struggling to feed animals. We will continue to ask the RPA to take a responsive and flexible approach towards farmers who are struggling to deliver on agri-environment schemes due to dry weather.
“This grant could prove a lifeline to livestock farms that have run out of options given the nationally significant incident we are facing with the weather.”
How to apply
If you are a working farmer and your main income is from farming an agricultural holding, the Addington Fund may be able to help if:
- you have insufficient feed/fodder or straw to prevent an animal welfare issue with your livestock
- you are unable to purchase feed or fodder and experiencing hardship because of the weather
- you are unable to release funds yourself by reviewing stock numbers in line with available resources
- you are unable to draw on any reserves/savings/or access an overdraft facility.
If you are unsure, please contact the Addington Fund about your particular situation by emailing: [email protected].
To apply for help, complete and return Addington's application form or email [email protected] and a form will be sent in the post.
Given the widespread nature of the emergency, Addington is not asking for donations/pledges of fodder for this emergency and is asking farmers to source their own supply.
For individuals or organisations wishing to help, Addington asks any with spare fodder to reach out to neighbours in need and if any wish to donate to the grant, they can do so at: Addington Fund | Make a donation.
For farmers from any sector who are struggling with the conditions and need support, members can contact NFU CallFirst for help and advice on: 0370 845 8458.
The Samaritans can be contacted any time for free on 116 123.
Help with domestic costs and counselling may be available from the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution.
FCN (Farming Community Network) provide a listening ear via their helpline 03000 111 999 or online, and their FarmWell website.
Other advice and support is available from: Farming Connect (Wales only).
