Support when you need it most

What circumstances led you to approach the Fund?

My husband had been sentenced to prison and it turned our worlds upside down.  My husband was the main breadwinner prior to his prison sentence, so when he was not here money was exceptionally tight and I could not make ends meet. For the sake of the children, especially my daughter who found it all very emotionally tough, I was trying to keep their lives as normal as possible as they had enough to cope with in their lives, therefore I applied to the fund, desperate for their help.

What happened after your initial contact to the Fund team?

After initial contact, the fund asked for all my details and then a home visit was arranged. Dawn and Emily came to visit me and were so lovely and supportive and instantly put me at ease. Following their visit, I had to wait to hear, as the committee had to meet. When the email came through letting me know what financial support they had granted me, it felt as if this huge weight had been lifted from my shoulders. I felt so very grateful.

How did the support you were granted assist with your situation?

The support I received enabled me to be able to pay all my bills and I was able to try to keep the children’s lives as normal as possible, which meant so much to me as they were going through a tough enough time. I was also entitled to counselling if any of us needed it. Therefore, if things did get out of control I know I had that support there. My daughter did receive counselling, but this was through the school, but if she had required more professional help, I knew this was there.

How did you feel you were you treated and how did it make you feel emotionally?

I was treated so well and with such kindness and understanding.  Dawn and Emily were so supportive and instantly put me at ease. I will never ever forget their help and kindness. I had hit the bottom, but I knew they were there for me, emotionally I felt so relieved to have their support.

How have things progressed for you since the support from the Fund?

When my husband was released from prison, we decided to give our marriage another go as we had split up. Initially things were very tough, but he got another job and through a lot of determination and hard work, things are slowly getting back to normal. Money is still tight, but we are coping.

What would have happened if you had not had the Benevolent Fund there to help?

If I had not had any help, I am not quite sure what would have happened. One of main worries was losing our home. My daughter took my husband’s sentence very hard and I think without help, I would not have been able to try to maintain the normality she and my son desperately needed and I really do not want to think what would have happened.

What would you say to any member facing difficulties and thinking of approaching the Fund?

I would say do not hesitate in contacting the fund as you are given so much help and support, both emotionally and financially, it is the best thing I did. 

Where can I get help?

If you are in a difficult situation, our Chemists’ Community Fund team will help guide you to the right advice, resources, and services and, in some cases, financial assistance.

Last month, the Fund refreshed their webpages, which now features information on the newest services, which include bereavement-counselling, support for those affected with autism and specialist advice and information through Citizens Advice Manchester. The new services join established offerings such as breathing space grants, legal advice, retraining grants and volunteer visits.