£1,000 donation from HCR supports people with MS

People living with multiple sclerosis (MS) in Worcestershire will get more support thanks to a £1,000 donation from Harrison Clark Rickerbys (HCR). The money will help to fund their work with DIAL South Worcestershire, an independent advice and welfare benefit service for disabled people and their families and carers.

The donation to the MS Society (Worcester and District Group) will go towards funding a worker for DIAL, boosting their capacity to help MS sufferers with benefit eligibility checks.

Government changes in disability allowances increased the need for help with completing long forms; HCR Hewitsons charity’s donation to the charity could mean that people receive funds which can transform their lives.

David Braby, joint group coordinator, said: “MS doesn’t just affect eyesight and mobility, but also cognitive abilities, so the admin hoops of benefits applications can be challenging. When the change from Disability Living Allowance to Personal Independent Payments (PIP) came in, there was a great increase in needs – that’s where DIAL comes in.”

“Our latest complete figures show that Worcester and District Group successfully put in appeals for more than £392,000 for people. One worker, who is a great example of our partnership with DIAL, spent over two and a half hours helping someone to complete their PIP form; that support got the client over £9,500 as a result.”

“This generous donation will help us to continue helping people with MS in the local area get the finances they are entitled to and make a difference to their lives.”

Caroline Kew, senior community fundraiser (North) at MS Society, said: “My sincere thanks to everyone at HCR for their kind support and helping to spread awareness about MS; it is very much appreciated.”

Ada Finch, partner, said: “I’m delighted that we’re able to support such an important cause – knowing that this donation will go towards ensuring people with MS receive vital support is great. It is one small way we can help people to live their lives independently but offer them the help they need.”