The British Benevolent Fund (BBF) is one of the oldest English-speaking charities in Spain and aims to step in with help when Brits have nowhere else to turn. Eugene Costello reports…
The British Benevolent Fund (BBF) is one of the oldest English-speaking charities in Spain and aims to step in with help when Brits have nowhere else to turn. It has records dating back more than a century and works with British consulates and charities across Spain to act as a charity of last resort when Brits are in need of financial support in extreme circumstances.
It is staffed exclusively by volunteers who give up their time selflessly to help those in need. Its committee is made up of trustees who also support the charity financially. Their honorary patron is Sir Alex Ellis, HM Ambassador to Spain. The BBF organises numerous fundraising events throughout the year, such as bag packing and a summer garden party.
Birthday breakdown in Benidorm
A case two years ago saw a 28-year-old Brit collapse while in Benidorm to celebrate his 29th birthday. The Type-1 diabetic collapsed suddenly in the street and ended up in the intensive care unit. The initial diagnosis on admission said that his collapse was due to hypoglycemic encephalopathy (extremely low blood glucose).He was admitted straight to the facility’s ICU where surgeons performed a tracheotomy and inserted a feeding tube. As a result of hydrocephalus – a build-up of fluid – Jack also suffered seizures and swelling of the brain.
His family discovered that because he did not declare on the holiday insurance forms that he had T1D, he was not covered for repatriation costs. His mother received much-needed financial assistance from the BBF.
Help while suffering advanced kidney failure
I recently turned to the BBF for help because I am suffering advanced kidney failure that leaves me too exhausted to work. They met my approach with a calm and non-judgmental manner, seeking to find out what my day-to-day needs were. After filling out a straightforward form, my kind case worker explained that, as a charity of last resort, they would not be able to help with issues such as rent but that they would be able to help with a sum for two months that would help pay bills and provide a modest amount for food and essentials.
I was delighted and they issued two monthly payments without fuss and in a timely manner.
If you are a Brit living or visiting Spain and suffer events that, through no fault of your own, threaten to overwhelm you financially, don’t despair. Help could be at hand. The BBF is experienced at handling a number of issues including repatriation and other welfare concerns, and welcomes donations to carry on its outstanding work.
It can be hard enough to navigate living or visiting abroad at the best of times. When the chips are down, knowing that the BBF is there to potentially help is a wonderful source of relief.
- To apply for a financial grant, email casesupport@britishbenevolentfund.org, or visit www.britishbenevolentfund.org to find out more, including how you can donate