A helping hand goes a long way
The LionHeart fund may be more than 100 years old, but it has evolved into a modern organisation
Founded by RICS members more than a century ago, LionHeart has made steps to shed the image of an old-fashioned benevolent fund. Instead, it is now a modern helping organisation, delivering an indispensable service to members and their families.
Working closely with other charities and statutory authorities, LionHeart helps those who experience a wide range of difficulties. Most commonly these are: bereavement; ill health and disability; unemployment; debt; problems coping as a single parent and as a carer for a sick or disabled family member, and problems in retirement.
Whereas 15 years ago, most beneficiaries primarily needed financial help, LionHeart now provides many with long-term support, counselling and friendship for those who are elderly unwell or lonely.
In addition to LionHeart’s 11 staff, the organisation is supported by more than 200 volunteers worldwide who make home visits and raise funds. A 24-hour helpline is staffed by qualified and experienced advisers and provides confidential advice and information about counselling, support, befriending and financial help by grant or loan.
The vast majority of beneficiaries (85%) are of working age, while 3% are under 35. There are now 35 beneficiaries in 14 countries outside the UK, including parts of Europe, Australia and America.
LionHeart has developed sophisticated IT systems to provide an extranet facility for volunteers, and has linked financial data and databases to provide real-time management information on screen. These initiatives have saved more than £16 000 per annum and also freed staff time for much needed charity work.
Each year LionHeart deals with more than 1 000 requests for help worldwide – representing almost 1% of RICS membership – and it is dependent on the generosity of members and firms in the property industry.
Personal donations by members account for 50% of income and 20% comes from their fundraising. Of this, 70% of all income is spent on direct charitable help. Gift Aid is the preferred method of giving for 70% of UK members who contribute to the fund.
What donations provide
Last year more than £600 000 was allocated in grants and loans. In addition, £40 000 in grants were given to help with the increased cost of energy bills and £8 000 was spent on safety checks and servicing gas appliances of beneficiaries. The box (left) gives just a few more examples of what member donations contribute to.
Mike Carter, Chief Executive of LionHeart, says: “Many people get involved as a way of assisting fellow members that are less fortunate than they are, and giving back to the profession that has helped them achieve successful careers. Plus, they never know if they, too, will need the help of LionHeart in the future.”
Find out more about LionHeart and how you can help at www.lionheart.org.uk or contact the team on +44 (024) 76 46 66 96. Alternatively, you can make a donation to the fund when you renew your 2007 subscription.
This article appeared in RICS Business, January 2007.
