Increased demand for railway charity’s services during COVID pandemic

The Railway Benefit Fund (RBF) has revealed that on an average of every seven minutes somebody has reached out to them for help and guidance – a level unseen since the charity began over 160 years ago.

The details have been revealed in the charity’s latest newsletter.

The RBF is the only UK charity that solely supports railway people and their families and the team have seen a real increase in demand for services this year, due to the uncertainty brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The RBF newsletter highlights the impact and activities of the charity over the past six months, including the session hosted by the charity at the recent Rail Wellbeing Live event. Also included is a feature on RBF’s involvement in the RIA annual conference and an update on the work of the RBF Ambassadors.

Claire Houghton, CEO of the Railway Benefit Fund, said: “The second half of 2020 has impacted the rail family widely across our industry. Here at RBF, we are privileged to be able support those working in rail facing difficult times. We can only do this due to the fantastic fundraising support we receive from within the railway family. Our thanks to everyone who has supported us in 2020.”

Established in 1858, the Railway Benefit Fund is the only UK charity which is solely dedicated to supporting current and former railway employees and their families.

RBF has a long history of providing financial grants to those going through tough times, and can help with a wide range of requests, such as funeral costs, debt relief and home repairs.

Writing in the latest newsletter, Tim Shoveller, RBF Chairman and Network Rail’s Managing Director North West and Central, said: “Our funding depends on your generosity. The charity relies solely on the donations and fundraising of its loyal supporters and now, more than ever, we need your help.

“A gift from you will make an incredible difference to those who need us at this difficult time.”

The December issue of the RBF newsletter can be viewed here: https://www.railwaybenefitfund.org.uk/events/rbf-newsletter-latest-edition/

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