Charity begins at home for new RSABI officers

The Royal Scottish Agricultural Benevolent Insitution (RSABI) has appointed two new regional development officers to help raise funds and increase awareness of the charity's role in the countryside.

Dawn Edward is appointed RSABI development officer for Lothian and the Borders

Dawn Edward, who grew up in East Lothian where her father runs an agricultural haulage business, will be taking up the role in Lothian and the Borders. Margo Wills, who grew up on the family farm in Clackmannanshire, will cover Angus, Fife, Perthshire and Tayside. Two further appointments to cover the rest of the country will be made in the spring.

The new recruits will concentrate on increasing regular income from RSABI’s supporter scheme – which enables individuals, businesses and corporations to support the organisation on an on-going basis – arranging fundraising events, raising awareness of the charity’s profile and supporting local volunteers.

Last year the organisation, which provides financial assistance, support and a helpline to people who have worked in countryside occupations who, due to age, injury, illness or misfortune find that they are unable to cope, contributed more than £450,000 of direct funds to assist more than 600 people.

Paul Tinson, RSABI development manager, said: “We are delighted to appoint Dawn and Margo as the first phase of an exciting reorganisation of RSABI development to cover the whole of Scotland.

“With an increasing number of people coming forward for support, four regional development officers throughout the country will be our dedicated spearhead, engaging with stakeholders, influencers and volunteers throughout Scotland to increase income for the charity and deliver RSABI development priorities.”