UNISON is unique in the trade union movement in that it has its own member welfare charity, There for You, which provides a wide array of support services. Here are some that could be valuable right now.
UNISON Help with energy costs guide
This information guide contains details of organisations and schemes that can provide support and assistance, along with charities – including There for You – that may be able to give financial help towards heating bills, useful contacts and money saving tips.
UNISON Benefits calculator
Many people are not taking up the full offering of benefits available to them, whether because they don’t know they are entitled to them, or because the process can be difficult to navigate.
UNISON Budget planner
The first vital step in taking control of your finances is to create a personal budget plan. UNISON’s budget calculator is user friendly and only takes a matter of minutes to complete if you have your financial information to hand.
UNISON debtline
UNISON’s debtline, run by PayPlan, can help you deal with debt, from credit cards to mortgage arrears. It offers free, confidential advice with no hidden charges and a personal case officer to advise, with the aim to create a manageable debt plan to suit your circumstances.
Contact the UNISON debtline on Freephone: 0800 389 3302
School uniform grants
This year’s school uniform grant programme will launch 24 June with applications assessed before the end of the summer break. More info on the website in the coming weeks.
Other financial assistance
Grants to address specific needs for members who are facing unexpected hardship can be considered. Perhaps there’s been a recent change in your financial circumstances and help is needed, for example, with living costs, essential household bills, to replace a broken appliance or fund disability aids.
For more on There for You, talk to you branch welfare officer, visit the website or call UNISONdirect on 0800 0 857 857.
How to donate to There for You’s energy support fund:
JustGiving donations
You can visit our JustGiving page to make a donation online, alternatively scan the QR code below.
Your branch can make donations to There for You by direct bank transfer to:
Account name: UNISON Welfare
Bank name: Unity Trust Bank
Sort code: 60-83-01
Account number: 20215147
Ref: Please enter Energy followed by your branch code
Please fill out this short form when you have made your donation.
