National
Support for freemasons
Better Lives: Making a Difference
We recently released the 15th edition of Better Lives – this time fully digitally. This issue explores different forms of support through different voices. Below, you’ll find a snapshot of the people featured in the magazine and a glimpse into their stories.
A day in the life of Annaliese
Annaliese is an experienced Grants Officer at the MCF. Her role is varied, but often entails answering emails, taking calls, and reviewing application forms for members of the Freemasonry community applying for MCF support.
“The best part of my role is being able to provide help and support to those in need, whether it be with a financial grant or mobility equipment. It has also been invaluable to learn about the state benefits system. It gives me such a kick when I find a benefit that a person may be entitled to apply for.” – Annaliese
Geoff, Avenues of support
Provincial Grand Almoner, Geoff Lloyd’s story highlights not only the support available from the MCF but also the vital work being carried out in his Province.
Following the tragic loss of four members in his Province to suicide, Geoff led efforts to establish stronger mental health support in Cheshire. His team began by promoting services from the MCF and Mind through digital outreach – emails, social media, and website updates – before expanding to reach offline members with posters, leaflets, and banners.
The initiative had an immediate and positive impact across the Province, directly helping over 20 people, with two receiving critical urgent care.
Ray, Support that keeps giving
Recent research has found that 62 per cent of people in the UK who are eligible for key benefits are not claiming them, resulting in around £22 billion in unclaimed benefits annually.
Helping to reduce this number is a focus for the MCF, and more specifically for the Advice and Support Team (AST). The Advisers work closely with Provinces and local charities to address financial problems with a more holistic approach to helping families maximise their benefits, manage debt, and build long-term financial stability.
Freemason Ray received advice and guidance from an MCF Adviser, who explained that he might be eligible for state support following the death of his wife and the resulting financial strain. With the Adviser’s help, Ray contacted Citizens Advice and applied for Attendance Allowance. He was found to be eligible for the highest rate due to his circumstances. This outcome, on top of an MCF grant for daily living costs, meant that he was no longer struggling to keep on top of his bills and could live a fuller, more comfortable life.
Better Lives is our annual magazine, sharing real stories from the people we support, offering advice for those considering applying, and showcasing the incredible work of our Masonic Support team. Last year alone, we proudly supported over 3,000 individuals through our Masonic Support scheme – helping Freemasons and their families across the country at the time of greatest and sudden need, navigate financial, family, and health-related challenges. We are incredibly proud to make a real difference in people’s lives – and it is only possible thanks to the generous support of the Freemasonry community. We hope you enjoy this issue, which is centred on one of our core values: ‘Making a Difference.
