Help in times of need
This week is your chance to help raise money for colleagues in need via our in-house charity, the Rowland Hill Fund (RHF).
The Fund supports colleagues, past and present, and their dependents. It can provide financial help with rent, mortgage and utility bill arrears, home modifications, hospital travelling expenses and much more.
In 2017-2018, colleagues raised a fantastic £145,000 for the Fund – the highest amount ever. There were 420 successful applications to the Fund and £500,000 was given to our people.
This week, we hear from some of the people whose lives have been changed for the better by the money they received from the Fund.
Susan Sutton and her grandson, Aaron, received £2,500 towards a specialised electric wheelchair
Former colleague Susan is now the legal guardian for her 13 year-old grandson, Aaron, who has Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease, a rare condition which significantly affects his lower legs, arms, hands and ankles.
Aaron’s condition is progressive and there is no cure. He is unable to walk and must crawl on his hands and knees. Susan herself is suffering from breast cancer as well as a heart condition.
Postman Sean Bandy received £680 for bankruptcy fees
Sean contacted the Fund to ask for financial support to go bankrupt after accruing various liabilities following the breakdown of his relationship with his ex-wife. Following the separation, Sean had moved out of his home to rented accommodation, which he paid for, as well as covering the mortgage payments for the house he jointly owned with his wife and two young children.
After a difficult time involving court proceedings and court fees regarding the children, Sean found himself significantly in debt. After contacting the debt charity, StepChange he was advised to apply for bankruptcy. The Fund was able to support Sean by paying for his bankruptcy fees.
Our fundraising week is your opportunity to support the Fund by raising as much money as you can towards the £160,000 target the Fund has for 2018/19. The money will then be reinvested directly into helping our colleagues.
You can request a charity bucket and other materials, such as posters and leaflets, by contacting the Fund directly:
If you know someone who would benefit from help and support, contact the Fund via the confidential Rowland Hill Fund helpline on 0345 600 4586.
