FARMING charity Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI) is once again releasing money from its crisis fund to provide emergency grants to farming families.

Following the last three weekends of storms and heavy rain RABI has released an initial £50k to provide emergency payments to those affected by the impacts of the extreme weather across England and Wales.

Alicia Chivers, RABI CEO, said: “Having already provided around £75k of emergency grant support to those affected by extreme wet weather this autumn / winter, we know how devastating the impacts are for farmers in both the immediate and longer-term. Simplifying our criteria and application process means we can fast-track immediate assistance to affected farmers.

“These funds, whilst a relatively small element of the help we expect to provide over the longer-term to those affected, can make a real difference dealing with urgent priorities – and help to alleviate pressing financial worries, allowing farmers to concentrate on dealing with the immediate impacts of the extreme weather.

“RABI will be here to provide support for as long as it is needed by our community. We will also continue to work closely with partner charities and other farming organisations to make sure help is available, both now and on an enduring basis.”

To apply for assistance ring the Freephone Helpline 0808 281 9490.