Police staff – We’re here for you too!

We are pleased to say that word is getting around that WMP police staff are entitled to join the West Midlands Police Benevolent Fund as well as serving officers.

This year we have welcomed more police staff to the Benevolent Fund than ever before. Out of our 6300 plus members, just under 200 are police staff colleagues, so we still have work to do to spread the word about the benefits of joining.

In April this year we paid out a Death in Service Grant of £3500 to the son of police staff member Nicola Bonser, who sadly lost her battle with cancer.

Only last month we gave a charitable grant to a police staff member to pay for unexpected solicitor’s fees, following a family separation.

“I joined the Ben Fund after receiving an input on my NPU. I thought ‘Wow, what a worthy cause’ and happily joined, not knowing that sometime in the near future I would be asking them for help! After separating from my husband I thought I was finally getting my life straight until I was struck with an unexpected solicitor’s fee of £1267.

“I spent sleepless nights worrying about how I would pay this then wondered if I could get some help from the Benevolent Fund.

“After making initial contact I arranged to see them. They were great, so helpful. I am so grateful for the grant they gave me, not to mention the ongoing support and empathy shown towards me.”

So far this year the Benevolent Fund has given £41,881 to support members and their families.

The Fund has been offering support to West Midlands Police colleagues since 1974 and for just £2.00 per month it offers peace of mind that assistance may be given should the unforeseen happen.

Members are enjoying increasing benefits for their £2.00 monthly subscription. Colleagues have given the thumbs up to ‘Peel’s Retreat’ the Ben Fund’s new holiday home in Weymouth. Just steps away from the sea it offers members and their families (including dogs) a great base to explore the beautiful Jurassic coastline. Weeks have been snapped up by members, enjoying an attractive discounted rate. There are still a few weeks available for the end of the year and early 2018. To book simply visit www.wmpben.co.uk

The Fund is now looking to buy its second holiday property, so if you’re currently not a member now is a great time to join!

For a further details about member benefits and how to join visit www.wmpben.co.uk