Martin, aged 44, left banking after 20 years with a very low income, large debts and a variety of health problems including anxiety, arthritis and alcohol dependency which he successfully struggled to control. Sadly, Martin is in one of the most disadvantaged groups in society and as he had no money to pay for basic essentials when they broke down, the Fund was able to help with a grant of £500 for basic white goods and a bed. We were also able to provide a small regular grant targeted to enable Martin to keep in touch with friends and family and also to attend training sessions designed to help him get back to work.

Graham, who is suffering from a seriously life threatening condition, was introduced to the Fund through the hospice where he is being cared for. Graham’s wife Ann had to give up her bank cashier job to look after him and was eligible to seek help with the extra costs of visiting which placed a significant strain on their much reduced income. In addition to a grant of £500 to help Ann keep in touch with Graham while an organ donor is found, the Fund identified that the opportunity to help with the costs of two teenage children and was able to make grants available to help the children complete their studies alongside of their more fortunate colleagues.