Personal Stories
Grant Applicants Feedback
The BHS Trust Fund awards financial grants to individuals facing financial difficulties. The grants can cover a wide range of needs from shopping to appliances and household bills. The comments from applicants below provides an insight into how much this support means to those that receive it.
“I would like to say how much I have appreciated all that you did for me. It has made such a big difference to my life not worrying about my bills. I wish you all good health and hope this lockdown is over soon.”
“I must thank you and the BHS Trust Fund for everything you have helped me with in recent months. Little did I know what my finances would go through, even more of a challenge with the situation everyone finds themselves in during this pandemic. I have no idea how we would have managed, if we had not received the Food Vouchers at this time. Also, the help with paying off some debts. This helped massively as I was furloughed, and like everyone else in that situation, had no wages for a few weeks. We have been able to get some breathing space, clear certain debts completely and settle other big bills. Everyone I spoke to from the Trust Fund was understanding, compassionate and reassuring. A Fantastic organisation who makes a real difference to individuals and families. Your support has been greatly appreciated.”
“I do not know how to thank you enough for everything you have done for us. I was going through a very tricky time before Christmas, you have eased our problems and supported me in getting back on track. I really cannot thank you enough. You have gone above and beyond any expectations that I had. I really appreciate what you have done for us at this difficult time. You did it with kindness and it was good to exchange messages, thank you so much for all of your support with everything.”
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank you and your team for last month’s Vouchers, they went to really good use. The kids loved their toys and new clothes. You have personally made a really tough situation that little bit easier. I really cannot thank you enough.”
Annual Holiday Feedback
In September 2019, the BHS Trust Fund took a group to Menorca for the annual holiday. All were former BHS employees, both males and females, of all ages and from all over the UK! The weather was lovely and the holiday a great success. You can tell how much individuals benefited, by reading some of the comments the Fund received on their return:
“Words cannot say how much I enjoyed my fabulous holiday it’s done so much for me, can never thank you enough.”
“A wonderful relaxing holiday with some great people, it was just what I needed that boost to help we through the difficult period ahead.”
“You have given me the confidence to carry my life forward. I could have not had a more enjoyable time from start to finish.”
“I was nervous about going away with strangers but also excited. I can honestly say within an hour at the airport we had all gelled. The support you felt and the support you received were second to none.”
“We arrived as strangers but depart as friends. I feel much more relaxed and positive, much more able to deal with the problems that’ll face me on my return.”
“I have had the most amazing time. Have met some wonderful people and made some new friends. I will remember this holiday forever.”
“When starting on this journey I was nervous and apprehensive, in fact frightened. But once in the group at the airport I made my first friendship that hopefully will last a lifetime. The following days more and more friendships grew. The empathy within the group was instant, we all had something in common. We needed to heal or start that journey of healing / moving on.”
“Well, all the years working for BHS who thought I would be needing help from the BHS Trust Fund after the death of my husband. This holiday has come at the best time when life has thrown a curved ball. Amazing opportunity.”
“I have had a fantastic time – enjoyed every day. I feel refreshed and peaceful and generally happier. I have enjoyed great laughs and friendships that I will treasure forever.”
Short Family Break Feedback
Christmas Support Feedback
“What you have done for me is so wonderful and I am so grateful and thank each of you for the gift, which has made my Christmas with my family possible.”
“After an horrendous year this was so kind of you. I cannot begin to explain the difference this will make to myself and my son. Without the vouchers we would have had an extremely frugal Christmas.”
“Just received my gift cards. THANK YOU. You’ve taken some worry away from this stressful time of year.”
“Thank you all, from the bottom of my heart for the vouchers. I can’t tell you how much they meant to me at this time of the year.”
“Hi, I just wanted to say thank you so much for the gift cards. I feel a little weight lifted.”
“Thank you so much for your generous gift card. It has made such a difference and I am truly grateful. I have managed to fill my freezer and cupboards, which will last well into the New Year.”
“This gift card could not have come at a more appropriate time. Just out of hospital and although Physically feeling much better, mentally I’ve been struggling and feeling low, so thank you very, very, much.”
“Hello! I just wanted to say thank you so much for the wonderful gift card, which I received from the Trust in time for Christmas. I can’t begin to explain how much this has helped towards creating a really lovely time for my family and myself.”
“Thank you is not enough for your help in getting the fire fixed and the gift cards.”