A Tyrone-based charity will extend its programmes for older farmers to 17 rural locations across Northern Ireland after receiving a £10,000 grant.

The funding comes from SPAR NI’s 2026 Community Cashback Fund and will support Plough On, which works to reduce social isolation and improve wellbeing among older members of the farming community.

Operating from Cookstown, the charity provides spaces where older farmers can gather, share experiences and build connections, particularly targeting those who are disconnected from mainstream support services.

Nikki Foster-Moreira, the charity’s Social Farming and Innovation Programme Manager, noted that farming can be a solitary occupation, especially for older men, and the groups help combat loneliness and foster a sense of community.

She said the grant will allow the charity to keep creating opportunities for people to support one another in a relaxed setting, and expressed gratitude to SPAR for recognising the importance of rural community investment.

Bethany Priestly of SPAR NI said the retailer was pleased to back an organisation that delivers essential services to older farmers.

Plough On was one of seven organisations to benefit from the latest round of the Community Cashback Grant.