The Arthur Rank Centre has reaffirmed its commitment to support farming families following the recent Budget statement (October 30th) which introduced changes to Inheritance Tax, (principally the reduction in agricultural property relief,) and other measures. The Budget sparked widespread concern and anger in the farming community. These changes are expected to bring significant challenges to family farms, which form the backbone of rural life.
Speaking on behalf of the Arthur Rank Centre, Chief Executive Officer Revd Matt Jeffrey, said, "We want to extend a hand of friendship to farmers during this difficult time. Our network of rural Christians and churches is here to provide confidential support to those grappling with the implications of these changes. Whether it's a listening ear or walking alongside families in navigating tough decisions, we stand ready to help."
The Arthur Rank Centre is committed to offering practical and community-level support in the form of advocacy, ensuring rural voices are heard by policymakers, including through partnerships with organisations like the Tenant Farmers Association, the Agricultural Chaplains Association, and Farming Community Network. They offer practical support through providing training and resources, such as the Rural Mission and Ministry Course and the Germinate Leadership programme, to equip rural churches for effective community support as well as inspiring resilience and determination to meet the challenges ahead.
Revd Preb Nick Read of Borderlands Rural Chaplaincy, and trustee of The Arthur Rank Centre, commented, "This is a time for collaboration, advocacy, and care. Together, we can ensure rural communities receive the support they need during this period of uncertainty." Fellow trustee George Dunn, CEO of the Tenant Farmers Association added, "We are proud to work alongside The Arthur Rank Centre in providing vital support to farming families. Our shared commitment to rural communities is central to everything we do."
As the Christmas season approaches, The Arthur Rank Centre invites everyone to reflect on the values of generosity, compassion, and community. These principles, deeply embedded in rural life, inspire the organisation's mission to walk alongside farmers and rural communities, regardless of faith or background.
The Arthur Rank Centre, founded in 1972 by J. Arthur Rank--a filmmaker, Christian, and member of a family deeply rooted in agriculture--has long served to resource, train, and advocate for rural Christians, churches, and communities. Recognising the joys and challenges at the heart of rural life, we continue to stand in solidarity with farming communities across the UK.
View full statement here
For further information please contact:
Revd Matt Jeffrey, CEO, The Arthur Rank Centre: matt.jeffrey@arthurrankcentre.org.uk | 0742 123 7195
Revd Preb Nick Read, Agricultural Chaplain, and trustee of The Arthur Rank Centre: agchap@btinternet.com | 07973 361055
George Dunn, CEO, Tenant Farmers Association, and trustee of The Arthur Rank Centre: george@tfa.org.uk | 0118 930 6130