Financial support from NUJ's own charity

DON'T FORGET, the NUJ itself hosts an independent charity – NUJ Extra – that can help members who have fallen on hard times with one-off grants to deal with emergencies.

The kind of expenses that NUJ Extra regularly assist with can range from paying a final-demand utility or rent bill to making adjustments to a home because of a sudden disability. Over the years, the charity has helped single parents and orphans, paid for repairs, bought electric wheelchairs, supported those fleeing from violent partners, and more.

These examples are by no means a definitive list: the charity trustees will consider all manner of applications and the details of your individual circumstances. However, note that NUJ Extra's principal qualification is that applicants should be full NUJ members (that is, not temporary, student or asylum seeker members) of at least one year standing and whose membership contributions are up to date.

Members experiencing temporary financial hardship are reminded that Union contributions can be reduced to see you through a rough patch. Get in touch with membership@nuj.org.uk to discuss options. Just don't let your membership lapse as that might disqualify you from receiving assistance from the charity.

To make an NUJ Extra application, contact either of LFB's Welfare Officers in confidence or apply directly online. Further details can be found at tinyurl.com/zya7yf29.

© Alistair Dabbs