A charity that supports the bereaved and people with complex, often life-limiting illnesses is appealing for help from Honiton residents.
The call comes on the day the charity responded to an inquiry into the government’s Bereavement Support Payment.
Sue Ryder, which was founded in 1953, needs more goods to sell in its local fund-raising store.
The charity provides a range of services, both in the UK and abroad, including bereavement support and specialist care for those with neurological conditions.
First launched with a nursing home, Sue Ryder now provides care in a range of settings.
To ensure it can continue its work, it depends on support from people just like you.
Its charity shop in New Street, Honiton, currently needs more clothing, shoes and fashion accessories. It also accepts toys, bric-a-brac and books.
Supporters are currently encouraging people to de-clutter and donate any unwanted items to the store.
A shop spokesperson said: “Unfortunately, we cannot collect your items directly from you but we would be very pleased to see you and receive donations from you in the shop.”
“Who knows – you may see something that can be new to you too!”
Sue Ryder has been campaigning for changes to the Bereavement Support Payment.
Following the final part of a Select Committee inquiry into the payment, Elinor Jayne, head of influencing at Sue Ryder, today (July 17) said: “Sue Ryder welcomes the recommendation for an evaluation of the Bereavement Support Payment. However, this must be carried out as a matter of urgency to end the inequities in the system and make sure the bereavement benefit works for all, for as long as people need it.
“In the meantime, there is no justification for excluding unmarried partners from the benefit – this can and should be changed now, regardless of the evaluation.”
Sue Ryder had urged the committee to:
- Extend the eligibility for Bereavement Support Payment to include unmarried couples, in addition to married or civil partners.
- Extend the deadline within which people must apply for the benefit from three months to two years, or find a way to ensure it is paid automatically without having to apply. A bereaved person is likely to still be coming to terms with their loss in the first three months and applying for benefits during that period can often feel like a task too high.
- The 18 month period for payments should be extended or be made more flexible to allow for individual circumstances. This could be particularly supportive for those with dependent children or older adults.
- Create a simple, easy to navigate hub offering advice on all of the practical aspects of handling a death, including benefits and financial assistance.
