The new Chief Executive Officer of the Railway Benefit Fund (RBF) says they have seen a surge in demand for services during the coronavirus pandemic – with more applications for support than ever.
Claire Houghton has made the comments as the organisation announces a campaign to recruit 100 ambassadors passionate about helping their fellow rail workers.
She said: “Many of you have told us that you see rail as one big family and you demonstrate this everyday through your passion for each other’s welfare and huge pride in what you do. We feel privileged to be part of the family and to be here for people going through tough times.
“We need to make sure that everyone in the rail industry knows RBF are here for them, especially in times of crisis. We are the industry’s charity but a small team which is why the ambassador role is so important to us.
“In effect anybody within the rail sector can get involved. The role is as little, or as much, as you can manage. We will send you updates on our services, events and campaign and ask you to share information, put up posters.
“We have ambassadors who invite us to their community events, health and wellbeing days, sell Christmas cards and raise money.”
In recent months, RBF has seen a surge in demand for services, with its app and legal advice line very popular and its website attracting a huge number of visitors.
Tim Shoveller, RBF Chairman, said: “There has been a significant increase in requests for financial assistance and our team have been dealing with an unprecedented volume of cases, a level unseen since the charity began over 160 years ago.
“With many of our colleagues in the rail industry experiencing changes in working patterns, some are now struggling to cover the basic costs of living and families are finding themselves in extremely difficult financial situations.
“RBF is the charity they turn to – we are here for the Railway Family during these incredibly tough times.”
Visit www.railwaybenefitfund.org.uk for more details. For more information about becoming an ambassador, email [email protected]. Email covidsupport@railwaybenefitfund.org.uk for more information on support.
Photo credit: Railway Benefit Fund
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