Support in difficult moments
When Will's steward contacted UNISON Welfare for help he was on long term
sick leave for work related stress and depression and not receiving any
pay. He was also appealing against a decision to refuse housing and
council tax benefits. However, Will also experienced a close family
bereavement at this time which only added to his depression and financial
pressures. Will had already been in contact with his local Citizens Advice
Bureau about his money problems and we also referred him to our free debt
advice service. This paved the way for UNISON Welfare to make a grant of
£1,455 towards funeral costs and an outstanding energy bill. With the
support of his steward and UNISON Welfare Will is beginning to feel more
positive. "I never thought I would have to call on your services, but
ill health can come to anyone... hopefully I will be able to return to
employment in the future."
The impact of a divorce
As well as coping with the impact of the divorce on her and her children's
wellbeing, sessional worker Diane was also coping with long term health
problems following a double stroke and waiting for a series of operations
on a painful condition affecting her wrists and hands. One of her sons
also has a disability. All this whilst juggling further study as a mature
student with part-time work made it difficult to make ends meet. Having to
take long-term sick leave because of her illness only made the financial
situation worse. UNISON Welfare was able to help with a grant of £910 for
food and essentials, a new fridge freezer and for children's clothing and
a further grant for a much needed family holiday. "I am so happy to be
able to spend some quality time with my children. We have all been through
a very rough time," said Diane after making the arrangements for her
break.
Helping the helpers
As well as looking after three children on his own, Dennis, a nurse, is
supporting his wife in Ghana who was left wheelchair bound following a
road accident and who also has one of their children living with her. The
member broke his wrist and was not able to return to work for an extended
period. Income was also reduced because he lost out on enhancements and
income from shifts and a second job which he was unable to do. His
financial position was also made worse by a loan he took out for his
wife's treatment. As well as being referred to our free debt advice
service at Payplan for advice on managing his loan UNISON Welfare was able
to make a grant of £750 towards school meals and living costs and to
reduce electricity, water and telephone bill arrears. The branch welfare
officer has also given a considerable amount of time and support.
"UNISON has demonstrated its fullest commitment to the welfare of its
members and I wish to indicate that I am proud to be a member of this
caring and dynamic union", said Dennis who continues to receive the
support of his branch and UNISON welfare. |
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Below is more information about UNISON Welfare and how we can help you. |
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I never thought I would have to call on your services, but ill health can
come to anyone... hopefully I will be able to return to employment in the
future.
 |
|
Will. |
|
I am so happy to be able to spend some quality time with my children. We
have all been through a very rough time.
|
|
Diane. |
|
UNISON has demonstrated its fullest commitment to the welfare of its members
and I wish to indicate that I am proud to be a member of this caring and
dynamic
union.
|
|
Dennis. |
|
