Better Lives
Better Lives is our bi-annual magazine, featuring real stories from the people we help, advice for anyone thinking of applying for support, and news from the MCF.
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Rising above – Tony W’s story
Freemason Tony W. was hit with health problems that had a significant impact on his ability to work and subsequently, his income.
Medical support for changing mobility
When he was unable to receive the medical support he needed during a time of change, Tony C. approached the MCF. His story shows the value of seeking help when facing life’s challenges.
Mind over matter
When things change, having a strong support system can make all the difference. Mohammed, a Freemason from Berkshire, faced divorce, health issues, and the challenges of the pandemic. He turned to his fellow Freemasons and the MCF for help and was able to access the services he needed and secure vital mental health support and financial assistance for his daughter.
Rising above – Mark’s story
Life is full of unexpected twists and turns, and sometimes we find ourselves facing challenges we could never have anticipated. It can be easy to feel overwhelmed and uncertain about what the future holds, but it’s important to remember that we don’t have to go through these difficult times alone.
Education in the face of change
Achieving a dream can often be hindered by financial challenges. We are helping young people reach their full potential by supporting children and grandchildren of Freemasons with financial assistance to undertake postgraduate study and take another step towards a brighter future.
A day in the life
Chris Jones is a Freemason from Lincolnshire who has started an epic journey – a 7,500 mile walk around the British coastline to raise an incredible £100,000 for the MCF. The walk will take up to 18 months, but what is even more inspiring is Chris’ reason for taking on this challenge.
Creating the best opportunities for young people
Financial challenges at home can have a lasting impact on families with children and young people, from having to buy school uniforms, equipment and pay for extra-curricular activities, to needing to access digital learning or going on school trips. These are all issues that can add a lot of stress on a family’s budget and make young people feel left behind their peers.
Advice and support
Our Advice and Support Team (AST) works regionally across England and Wales offering advice to help Freemasons and their family members with a wide range of issues, including helping people to complete applications for support from the MCF, apply for state and local authority benefits, and access support from other charities. We asked Caroline Wales to explain what the MCF can do for those on benefits who are most affected by the rising cost of living.
A helping hand
With the cost of living crisis weighing on many peoples’ minds, the MCF is here to help with the challenges that many Freemasons and families are facing. We have spoken with some of the people we support to understand how the crisis has affected them so far and how our support helped them overcome a challenging situation.
A chance to restart
For Rick, a Freemason from Hampshire and Isle of Wight, the charity element of Freemasonry only referred to the support provided to charities and communities in need. When he found himself in a difficult situation financially, he shared his worries with a colleague in a similar situation who told him he was getting some financial help for daily living and professional retraining.Â
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