NFU Mutual has pledged its support for farmers and rural communities as part of a £32m coronavirus support package.

The package includes donating millions to local and national charities, as well as rural and mental health causes, to help support the countryside through the pandemic.

The insurer has set up a £1m emergency coronavirus fund to be released through its agency network to help local charities and communities across the UK.

There will also be an added £750,000 donation to the NFU Mutual Charitable Trust, enabling donations of up to £1m to support national organisations - reaching the isolated and vulnerable experiencing stress and worry, as well as families facing financial challenges due to coronavirus.

A further £50,000 donation is being made to affiliated charity, the Farm Safety Foundation, to support and extend its mental health work during this period of isolation.

A range of insurance cover changes are being developed to protect policy holders. These will include increased cover in key farming sectors, alongside continued availability of the existing uncollected milk insurance at a time when many insurers are ending cover, and free extended public liability cover for farmers selling their own produce directly to the public.

Farmer and chairman of NFU Mutual, Jim McLaren, said: “For over a hundred years we have stood by the side of farmers and we are determined to do everything we can to support our customers and the countryside through these difficult times.

"Our wide-ranging £32m support package includes financial support for rural charities, together with additional insurance cover to help our members. Our 300 agent offices, based in the heart of our rural communities, will also be distributing funds to local causes.

“British farmers and growers are playing a vital role in the national effort, despite facing enormous challenges themselves. Adding protection for farmers will support the agricultural industry when the nation needs it most.

“Despite the challenges we are also facing, we will continue to offer a high level of Mutual Bonus this year, saving our loyal customers £250m in the form of premium discounts, because we recognise this is a difficult period for all.

“Streamlining our claims process is also making it easier for our members to get the payments they need quickly and safely at this critical time.”

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