Farming union raises nearly £40K for charity
26th September 2019
Alzheimer’s Society Cymru was presented with a cheque for nearly £30,000, while the Farming Community Network (FCN) – which supports farmers and their families through difficult times – received just under £10,000.
The Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) has raised nearly £40,000 for Alzheimer’s and farming charities, after two years of fundraising.
Alzheimer’s Society Cymru was presented with a cheque for nearly £30,000, while the Farming Community Network (FCN) – which supports farmers and their families through difficult times – received just under £10,000.
FUW president Glyn Roberts said the union wanted to continue its pledge to support struggling farmers and raise awareness of mental health problems in rural communities.
“In our places of work we’ve faced some pretty low-points in the last few years,” he said. “Bovine TB, price volatility and uncertainty about our future post-Brexit, this all puts a strain on our resolve and will have many feeling stressed and under immense pressure.
“That’s why the work of charities like the Farming Community Network is so important and we’re happy that we can help in supporting their efforts.”
The union also chose to support the Alzheimer’s Society in Wales, as it is anticipated that the number of cases will increase by 156 per cent between now and 2051.
Mr Roberts added: “The burden will fall on rural areas where there are significantly higher proportions of elderly people. So this not something that we can ignore and more research is desperately needed.”
Natalie de Maid, regional community fundraising manager for the charity, offered her “heartfelt” thanks to FUW staff and members who took part in fundraising.
“Every penny we raise helps us to support people affected by dementia, fund research and challenge perceptions,” she said. “We are proud to support people living with dementia in rural Wales and recognise the challenges they face.”
Meanwhile, FCN Wales regional director David Williams said its partnership with FUW had significantly enhanced its presence across Wales – meaning more volunteers and more farmers accessing help.
“We are incredibly grateful to Glyn Roberts and everyone involved with the FUW for the incredible fundraising efforts they have undertaken over the last two years,” he added.
“The money raised will go a long way in helping us reach out to even more farmers in Wales and help them prepare for the numerous challenges that lie ahead.”
