Addington Fund Relaunches ‘Give a Little, Make a Lot’ Scheme

Addington Fund is proud to announce the relaunch of its “Give a Little, Make a Lot” scheme, supported by the Livestock Auctioneers Association (LAA). This vital initiative invites farmers to make a small donation each time they sell livestock, helping raise essential funds to support the farming community across England and Wales. 

Originally launched in the wake of the 2001 Foot and Mouth outbreak, the Give a Little, Make a Lot scheme was created to provide a way for farmers to give back after receiving vital help from Addington Fund. Over two decades later, the challenges facing agriculture remain significant — from rising costs and weather extremes to housing pressures in rural areas — making the charity’s work more important than ever. 

Under the relaunched scheme, farmers who sell at participating livestock markets can pledge:  

• 30p per head on sheep and pigs sales 

• £1 per head on cattle sales

These contributions are automatically deducted by participating livestock markets and donated directly to Addington Fund. 

Sue English, Fund Director at Addington Fund, said “The Give a Little, Make a Lot scheme shows how small acts of generosity can make a big difference. Since our original Give a Little, Make a Lot Scheme was launched it has raised £12,000, directly supporting farmers and farm workers who need housing, emergency assistance, or help getting started in agriculture. We’re grateful to the LAA and its members for continuing to back this initiative.” 

The Livestock Auctioneers Association has been a steadfast supporter of the scheme since its inception, helping to coordinate market participation and promote the campaign across England and Wales. 

Alastair Brown, LAA Policy & Strategy Officer, said “The farming community has always been built on resilience, compassion and a willingness to help one another. The Give a Little, Make a Lot scheme captures that spirit perfectly. 

“At the Livestock Auctioneers Association, we’re proud to support Addington Fund in championing this shared commitment to supporting farmers when they need it most. Even the smallest contributions can create meaningful change — and this initiative reminds us what can be achieved when our industry comes together.” 

Funds raised through the Scheme help Addington Fund provide: 

• Housing support for farmers who lose their homes through no fault of their own and retiring farm workers priced out of the market. 

• Emergency relief via Forage Aid during crises such as flood or drought, certain animal disease outbreak and personal emergency. 

• New Entrant opportunities, helping first-generation farmers take their first steps in agriculture through small grants and a new starter farm scheme.