Since 2017, Cavell has received a total of £270,000 from the CSIS Charity Fund to support nurses and midwives facing personal or financial crises.

The CSIS Charity Fund gives grants to charities and organisations that support civil and public servants and their families through periods of hardship often caused by illness, job loss and family break-ups.

Though a charity in its own right, the fund is closely linked to the Civil Service Insurance Society (CSIS), which is a not-for-profit personal insurance provider that is bound by deed to donate all of its operating surplus to the CSIS Charity Fund. This has enabled them to complete a ‘virtuous circle’ by putting the money back into communities that need it most.

The CSIS Charity Fund’s donations to Cavell have improved the lives of hundreds of nurses and midwives. By supporting those delivering care, this investment also strengthens the quality and continuity of care for tens of thousands of patients. People turn to Cavell for help with challenges such as illness, disability, domestic abuse and the ongoing impact of rising living costs.

One of those supported by Cavell recently was nurse and mother Rosa who made the difficult decision to end her abusive relationship, leaving her and her children facing financial stress.

“It was a relief” says Rosa “but I didn’t realise how financially difficult life would be for me and the children.” The Cavell support team was able to make a payment to help with paying immediate and essential household bills for Rosa and her children.

“When I heard that we’d get support, tears were flowing from my eyes!” says Rosa “I couldn’t believe people could be so kind. I was so grateful for the support.”

Reflecting on her experience of domestic abuse, Rosa is keen to turn it into positive outcomes.

“What I do now is use my personal experiences in my work as a community nurse” she explains “I can provide more effective care for those people who may be in a similar situation, and directly empathise with them. The support from Cavell has given me the courage to do this.”

Lewis Allett, Chief Executive at Cavell talks about the special partnership with the CSIS Charity Fund.

“The partnership with the CSIS Charity Fund is greatly valued. Their long-term commitment since 2017 reflects a sustained and trusted partnership, and the team at Cavell and I are incredibly grateful for all their support. It makes a significant difference. We’re proud that stories like Rosa’s show the impact of support from organisations like the CSIS Charity Fund. In this example, their ‘virtuous circle’ idea continues with Cavell’s support enabling and empowering Rosa to use her experience to support her patients.”

Lewis continued, “The commitment and generosity from loyal supporters like the CSIS Charity Fund builds the foundations for Cavell’s long-term growth and expansion of the support services we provides.”

Find out more about CSIS Charity Fund here.