The Addington Fund emerged at the start of the 21st century as a consequence of two farming stock diseases that significantly affected farming communities in England and Wales: Swine Fever and Foot and Mouth Disease. In the case of the latter outbreak, the countryside - particularly the South West region - was virtually shut down and considerable hardship occurred for all who lived and worked or relied upon fanning and rural dwelling.
The Addington Fund offers short-term financial aid to farmers and farm businesses when an emergency situation has or will create unforeseen additional expenditure. People directly connected to agriculture who live in England and Wales and who are experiencing hardship due to exceptional circumstances may apply. Match funding is not a stipulated requirement of the scheme. Applicants are strongly advised to contact the Fund directly to discuss any restrictions prior to applying.
The following grant funds are available:
1. Farmworker Grants - for those who work in or are retired from farming in England and Wales and are on a low income, the Addington Fund’s Farmworker Grants scheme can help purchase essential goods for homes. Through the George Stephens Trust Fund, grants of up to £600 can be provided to cover the costs of white goods for the home, bathroom equipment or other essential furnishings.
Grants can be awarded for people who were employed on a farm, are resident in England, or are a widow, widower, a son or daughter or a dependent of someone who works or has worked in farming.
In other qualifying circumstances, a single grant of up to £1,000 can be provided to purchase white goods for the home, or other items where alternative funding isn’t available. This includes:
o Beds.
o Disability equipment not covered by other organisations.
o Help towards heating costs.
o Help with rental deposit for a home (when not provided by your Council).
o Home furnishings.
o Lighting.
o Showers.
o Telephones.
o Washing machines, fridges and cookers.
o Vehicle repairs, and
o Any other items at the discretion of our Trustees (please contact the Addington Fund to discuss your needs).
2. Disaster Relief Emergency Fund - the Emergency Fund can be used to support farms which are severely impacted by a disease outbreak or prolonged inclement weather. The Fund can send much needed supplies direct to a farm so that livestock do not have to go without.
The Fund can also be used to support farms and protect animal welfare when the weather has a major impact. When severe flooding, drought, gales and snow drifts cause problems, Addington can send essential commodities such as compound feeds, silage, hay, straw and straights to a farm.
Further information and details about how to apply to the above and other support schemes is available on the Addington Fund’s website (click on the 'How we help' tab).
Applications may be made at any time.