Emily's Story

18 August 2022

On joining, like many of you, I signed up for various memberships and insurances with little understanding of what they can really offer, one being the Benevolent Fund.  I was happy to pay the fee, knowing that should something tragic happen to me, there would be financial support to help my family.  What I didn’t truly know, was the depths of this support, and that some years later I would need them on different occasions. 

I have two children; my second E

mily is now 7 and was born with a very rare genetic disorder.  On birth she was transferred to a London hospital where my wife and I had to commute to daily.  This was the first time the Benevolent Fund helped us.  The expense of unexpected daily travel to London was difficult, and with the stress of everything else going on, I was immensely grateful that my Sergeant had approached the Benevolent Fund and I was awarded money to cover the costs. 

This is probably the sort of support you would expect, but there is far more to be offered.

When Emily was 2, she was pump fed overnight, connected to a machine via a tube.  She was in a cot and started to show signs of climbing.  We approached the NHS, Social Services and a charity to help fund a medical bed to keep her safe, but they all pointed at each other and no one helped us.  We found a bed, which was £3000, and I again approached the Benevolent Fund for support.  I was awarded a non-means tested grant towards the cost, something that hugely helped. 

Most recently Emily has outgrown a bike seat.  Riding is something that as a family we enjoy doing to exercise and get out of the house.  It is great for Emily and helps her sensory needs.  I researched different special needs trailers and seats and found one that would work for us.  Most items designed for special needs children are generally more expensive than the equivalent, which was true with this trailer.  I again approached the Benevolent Fund who had paid for the whole item.  My daughter absolutely loves it, as do the rest of us, and it offers us the opportunity to continue to do something we enjoy together.

The point of this story is that I am immensely grateful for the money we have been awarded.  It isn’t only the financial gain, but when you are in a difficult place, the help really lifts your spirits and makes you feel supported.  I want you all to be aware of what the Benevolent Fund can do for you if needed.  If you have just joined, think seriously before you decide to opt out.  It’s a minimal fee and when you are up against it, you will be glad you are a member; I certainly didn’t think I would need their support as much as I have when I first joined.

PS Ian Loader