Established in July 1936, the Benevolent Fund was created to provide assistance to Institution members and their dependents facing difficulties. Over the past nine decades, it has helped hundreds of people navigate some of life’s most challenging circumstances, offering not only financial support but also practical guidance and access to specialist services.
The Fund’s purpose remains as relevant today as it was in 1936: to prevent or relieve poverty and financial hardship, support those facing illness, and help preserve health and wellbeing among current and former members of the Institution and their dependents.
My own involvement with the Institution began more than 45 years ago as a Student Member. Throughout my career, I was encouraged by colleagues who were active in the Institution’s regional branches to make the most of membership and become involved. That journey eventually led me to chair the Wales Branch in 1998, when I also served as an Advisory Member to the Benevolent Fund.
As we look back over the Fund’s history, we see how both society and the profession have changed. In its early years, much of the support provided by the fund was for widows and the families of deceased members. By contrast, most beneficiaries today are members themselves.
The figures tell an interesting story. In 1985, the Fund supported 15 beneficiaries, 12 of whom were widows and three unemployed members. By 2000, there were 33 beneficiaries: five unemployed members, 11 widows or other dependents, and 17 active members. The shift reflects broader social changes, including longer life expectancy, greater financial independence among spouses, more dual-income households, alongside improvements in pension provision.
The economic downturn of the early 1990s placed significant pressure on the construction industry. In 1993, the Benevolent Fund supported 19 members who were unemployed, representing a peak in assistance to working structural engineers.
While the number of beneficiaries has generally declined over recent decades, the need for support has not disappeared. Life-changing illness, disability, bereavement, mental health challenges, caring responsibilities and unexpected financial setbacks can and do affect anyone.
The Benevolent Fund provides grants to eligible applicants with confidentiality and compassion central to this support. Beyond financial assistance, the Fund works with specialist organisations including Better With Money, Anxiety UK and Chiumento, enabling members to access financial guidance, mental health support and help returning to work following illness or long-term abcence.
As we celebrate 90 years of the Benevolent Fund, it is important not only to recognise the Funds remarkable history but also to raise awareness of the continued support available today. Many members may be unaware that help exists for current and former members and after 90 years, the message remains focused: if you are facing financial hardship or know a fellow member who may need support, the Benevolent Fund is here to help.