Daphne Shipman Benevolent Fund
The Daphne Shipman Benevolent Fund was set up in memory of Daphne Shipman. Daphne was the steward co-ordinator for the BVNA Congress for many years and was loved by all who knew her. Sadly Daphne lost her fight against cancer in July 1999.
The Daphne Shipman Benevolent Fund, which is made up of donations from current members' legacies and investment income, is open to present BVNA members who are experiencing financial difficulties. The objective of the fund is to offer support to members, their spouses, relations or dependants who are in need, hardship or distress.
We understand that financial difficulties can occur at any time of life and for many different reasons, so we have devised an eligibility checklist.
What the fund covers
Assistance can be given for ‘essential' outgoings that are not covered by statutory benefits; and where it can be shown that these cannot be met by current income.
Disabled or elderly members on a low income can also apply for one-off grants towards disability equipment, household repairs, adaptations or other essential household items that they would not otherwise be able to afford.
Eligibility
To qualify for an award you must be a current BVNA Member and have held membership for at least 12 months.
Members experiencing financial difficulties for the following reasons will be eligible to make an application to the Daphne Shipman Benevolent Fund:
- during a period of ill health when full contractual sick-pay has ceased
- following ill health
- following a relationship breakdown - if there are children
We cannot cover costs in the following circumstances;
- for a shortfall in income/over-expenditure is due to consumer debts such as credit cards and loans
- for private medical treatment
Unfortunately it is beyond the scope of the Benevolent Fund to make automatic awards to members who have had a reduction in income. All applicants will be required to complete an application form to ensure they fulfil the eligibility requirements and explain the financial hardship they are experiencing.
Members will also need to show that they have applied for all statutory benefits for which they are eligible.
If you are or know of someone who may require this assistance, please contact the BVNA office on 01279 408644 or email bvna@bvna.co.uk
Every application is carefully considered by its trustees, Jean Turner RVN, Ray Butcher MRCVS, Jane More VN and Angela Mariconda.
