A farming charity has appointed a new head of fundraising.

RABI welcomes Paul Pirie, who brings more than 30 years of experience in national fundraising, PR and business development to the charity.

“I’m excited to take up the position with RABI – particularly at such a pivotal point of transition for the farming community,” said Paul.

RABI chief executive officer, Alicia Chivers said that Paul joins RABI at a time when the charity’s role in supporting the wellbeing of farming people has never been more needed.

She said: “RABI is delivering against its aim of supporting four times as many farming people by 2024. To continue delivering such an extensive range of holistic, wraparound support services, covering wellbeing, financial support and practical advice and guidance, is dependent on robust resourcing.

“We need to ensure we reach our fundraising targets to maintain and grow our support offer at the level that is needed by our community.”

In his most recent roles, including a 21-year tenure at The Salvation Army, Paul has focused on providing strategic support to communities, a motivating factor which drew him to the role at RABI.

“The most vulnerable members of the farming community are being hit the hardest,” said Paul. “Many family farm businesses are on the brink and their long-term sustainability is at risk.

“A range of additional pressures facing farming communities, including post-Brexit labour shortages, fuel and fertiliser costs, policy transition and Avian Influenza are adding to the breadth of inherent farming pressure points.

“No matter what challenges face farming people over the coming months and years, RABI will continue to offer vital support where it is needed. I will help raise the funds required to fulfil these growing demands.”