The 4-and-a-half minute film, produced in collaboration with COI Communications, follows the fortunes of four recipients of the Fund’s help and advice, which in 2008 provided £4.65 million in financial support to more than 7,000 people.
It demonstrates how the Fund makes a massive difference to current and former civil servants in the UK, and how, with our support, many thousands of people are able to put problems, such as bereavement, disabilities, and hardship, behind them.
Marina Carpenter, featured in the video, is one such example. Her husband walked out on Marina and their daughter – leaving behind a trail of debt which Marina had no idea about.
With the Fund’s support, she was able to rebuild her life and maintain her work within Jobcentre Plus. Her daughter is now off to university.
The video has been produced in DVD format, for distribution to civil service workplaces, and can also be viewed on the Fund’s YouTube channel. Since being launched, it has been viewed nearly 2,000 times.
Commenting on the award, the Fund’s Operations Director Beryl Evans said: “’Help At Hand’ portrays a very clear message of the work of the Civil Service Benevolent Fund, and underscores its importance as the charity for all current and former civil servants.
“To be recognised by a leading professional group such as CiB for our video is a tremendous achievement. Many people at the Fund worked extremely hard to create it, and they deserve enormous credit for their efforts.
“But ultimately we couldn’t have put together such a compelling story without the help of the people featured in the video.
“The Fund has never been busier in its 123-year history. With the impact of the economic situation really biting, we expect to provide even more financial assistance in 2009, and help thousands who also need advice and information, which is why we will continue to reinforce our message.
“We’re here for life, and we get things done; quickly, efficiently and in complete confidence. If civil servants have a problem, they should speak to a dedicated Help and Advisory professional; call our Freephone – 0800 056 2424.”
