A change in Fortunes

When Carol Fortune had problems she turned to the LTC. Now she's back on track

In the first half of 2007, the Licensed Trade Charity (LTC) - the organisation that helps those who have worked, or are still working in the licensed drinks trade - saw a huge increase in the numbers of people

approaching them for assistance with one

-off grants. During this period the LTC came to the aid of 35% more people compared to the same period last year.

Liz Gaffer, director of marketing & charity services at the LTC said: "More and more people are contacting us in need of assistance. We're so pleased that we're able to help those who are facing a difficult time in their lives. The message of how and who we help, is on the increase and we're aiming to continue this good work to make sure that everyone entitled to help, receives it."

Carol Fortune is one of the many people who have contacted the LTC for assistance and her life is now taking a turn for the better. In July 2000 Carol was running a pub with her husband, who left without warning leaving her penniless.

Carol was left with their two boys; Adam and Aaron, who at the time were aged five and six respectively. Carol tried to keep running the pub on her own, but with the responsibilities of a pub and looking after two boys, it was a difficult time for her. Her health suffered and she was subsequently evicted from the pub, leaving her and the boys homeless.

Difficulty settling in

Carol, Adam and Aaron stayed in Local Authority temporary B&B accommodation while waiting to be rehoused. It was then that Carol approached the LTC to apply for bursaries for Adam and Aaron so they could attend the Licensed Victuallers School, which is run by the LTC. The LTC awarded full bursaries for them both and also agreed to pay for all of the academic extras.

Carol was living on income support which was reduced during term time, and she found it difficult to manage, particularly when

travelling to Ascot from Devon on a regular basis to pick up the boys from school. To help out, the LTC made Carol a regular beneficiary, which helped her with the running costs of the car.

Adam settled in well at the school, but Aaron found it very difficult being separated from his mum, especially with the upheaval of the previous years, his dad leaving and the eviction from his home. Aaron had problems settling into boarding school life and it was agreed that he would move back home until he was older and able to cope.

First port of call

He returned to the school three years later and Aaron has now been nominated for the National Academy for Gifted and Talented Youth, whose aims are to ensure that all children and young people, regardless of background, have access to the formal and informal learning opportunities they need to help them convert their potential into high achievement.

The LTC has been Carol's first port of call when she has experienced problems, but now life for Carol and her family seems to be back on track. She has tried in the past to find a job, but her family responsibilities and the usual benefits poverty trap have conspired against her. However, with a home, a new job as a dental receptionist and her hours set to increase in time, Carol seems to be finally experiencing the life she deserves.

Licensed Trade Charity head of welfare

Kath Gill said: "Carol is one of the many people that we've helped across a range of situations and we are hoping that more people will make us the first port of call when they have nowhere else to turn."