Can you give a helping hand?

The SHA and HMA benevolent funds are asking for your help. The funds provide appropriate support for any member, past member or their dependents who may be in strained financial circumstances or have special needs caused by accident, illness or disability.

They are administered by independent trustees, all members or retired members and have capital assets of more than £600,000, all of which has been contributed by members over the years.

The trustees can also offer support, advice and companionship to members or past members who, while not in financial need, may benefit from contact.

The funds currently help a number of long term beneficiaries, financially or simply with occasional visits and seasonal presents, but we believe there are many more people who might well benefit if only we knew about them and they about us.

That is where you come in - you may be able to identify someone who might welcome the funds' help. Sometimes the friendly support we can offer is much more important than money.

Remember, too, that the funds help widows and widowers of past members as well as their children. We are always happy to discuss individual cases in total confidence and we welcome enquiries. Contact John Sutton or Alan Barnes via SHA headquarters on 0116 299 1122.