LTC helps more people than ever before

The Licensed Trade Charity (LTC) has come to the aid of more people in the last six months than ever before.

Over half-a-million pounds has been spent on support grants between October 2006 and March of this year, an increase of 12 per cent compared to the same period last year.

One-off grants saw the sharpest increase of 43 per cent year on year, a total of £53,700.

The charity says it has seen a particular increase in the number of calls from those working in the licensed drinks industry including draymen, nightclub managers, brewery staff, off-licence workers, bar staff and licensees.

Liz Gaffer, director of marketing and charity services said: "The level of help provided reflects the increasing number of calls we are receiving from people in our trade.

"Awareness of the charity is increasing but many are still not aware that there is an occupational charity for the licensed drinks trade, nor of the range of support on offer, including education through our two excellent schools."

Grants help people in hardship and include:

? Help with securing accommodation for those facing homelessness.

? Emergency payments for those facing sudden loss of income caused by life crises such as illness or relationship breakdown.

? Disability equipment, for example stair lifts and electric scooters which improve quality of life and maintain independence.

? Last respect grants to cover funeral expenses when there is no-one else to turn to.

? Essential household items which are impossible to replace for people on a limited income.