£100k Snow Impact Fund launches for farmers affected by extreme weather

RSABI, the charity which provides practical, emotional and financial support to people in Scottish agriculture, is offering payments of up to £1,000 per farming family business for those experiencing loss as a result of the exceptional snow affecting much of the north and north-east of Scotland. 

Farmers who experience significant additional costs as a result of the impact of the extreme weather conditions are being encouraged to complete an online application form, which is available on RSABI’s website and social media platforms. Alternatively, they can call charity’s 24/7 helpline on 0808 1234 555 to apply for the funding. 

The funding will be provided at RSABI’s discretion to those who meet the eligibility criteria and are able to provide details and evidence of damage and losses. 

Carol McLaren, chief executive of RSABI, said that the charity is aware of many farmers who have sustained damage, particularly to farm buildings. 

“The start of 2026 has been a very trying time for farming families in the worst-hit parts of Scotland as they battle to feed and look after livestock in very challenging conditions, as well as defrosting water troughs and pipes in plummeting temperatures. 

“Remarkably, they have managed to do all this and also make a truly outstanding contribution to communities around the country, keeping roads open and assisting vulnerable people in rural areas. There are numerous examples of exemplary support and kindness being provided without hesitation. 

“Behind the scenes, however, the exceptional snowfall is also taking a significant toll in terms of damage and other impact, and we have had worrying reports of collapsed roofs and stores of feed and grain being affected too. 

“There will almost certainly be flooding damage on the horizon too, on the back of the thaw when it eventually comes, creating a fresh range of challenges for farming families around the country at a time of year when they are starting to prepare for the main lambing and calving season,” she added. 

Snow Impact Appeal

Ms McLaren said RSABI had also been very touched by offers of donations from the public and from farmers in less affected parts of Scotland. In response to this, the charity has also set up a Snow Impact Appeal. 

This will offer the opportunity to donate to RSABI to support the work it is doing to assist farmers and crofters affected by the snow and also its ongoing wider remit in support of people in Scottish agriculture. 

Anyone who would like to contribute can do so via: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/snowfund  or by texting SNOWTEN to 70450 to donate £10 or Text SNOWTWENTY to 70450 to donate £20. Texts will cost the donation amount plus one standard network rate message. Further information is also available on the charity’s website.

RSABI offers free practical, financial, and emotional support, including counselling services, delivered quickly after receiving the initial enquiry. Its free confidential support service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year, by calling 0808 1234 555 (calls will not show up on phone bills) or through a confidential webchat service, available on RSABI’s website. 

Read more rural news.