Tim Shoveller, managing director of Network Rail’s North West and Central region, is also chairman of the Railway Benefit Fund. In that role, he has written to supporters to update them on how the RBF is supporting the railway family during these uncertain and most difficult times.
“We have seen a huge increase in the demand for our services since the Covid-19 outbreak,” he wrote. “Within our grants programme alone, there has been a 60 per cent increase in requests for financial assistance and our team are 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. As more people have turned to us, we have extended our grant programme to ensure no family in the rail industry who needs our help is left unheard.
“Our funding depends on your generosity. The charity relies solely on the donations and fundraising of its loyal supporters and now, more than ever, we need your help. A gift from you will make an incredible difference to those who need us at this difficult time.
“Please donate to the Railway Benefit Fund Covid-19 Appeal – to help us continue to support the railway family through one of the toughest times we have ever experienced.”
