Who are we?
The Association is the national umbrella body for benevolent charities, that is charities who provide aid and advice to individuals in need. Any charity helping individuals can join the Association.
What do we do?
The Association supports charities that help people by sharing information and ideas, developing good practice, offering networking opportunities and the chance to discuss mutual problems and share solutions.
What do we offer?
The Association offers support services to its members. Working together with Turn2us ACO also provides a Helpline service for those in need looking for charitable assistance. Through the Association benevolent charities have a dialogue with Government and other agencies.
How does benevolence work?
Here are some recent examples of help given:
A beneficiary of the Timber Trades Benevolent Society writes:
“The winter fuel payments I have received from you have made a great difference to my life. This is the first winter in 18 years I have not had to call out my Doctor, I have had no asthma attacks meaning hospital, not had to use my nebulizer or use regular high dose steroids. I am convinced it is because my house is so much warmer. My doctor is delighted, as am I”
A 74 year old lady, who is a beneficiary of the Officers’ Association, recently lost her husband, an ex Army Officer. While trying to come to terms with her loss, she had discovered huge financial debts and she needed guidance.The Officers’ Association gave her details of professional debt counsellors who would help her, and as well as awarding an annual allowance, they awarded a grant towards household bills, which would be paid on her behalf to ease the pressure during this difficult time. She feels that the house is now too big for her, and the Officers’ Association has also provided information to her on choices of sheltered accommodation run by ex-service charities and other housing trusts.