The Institution has run a welfare fund for more than 20 years to help its professional members and employees, and their families and dependents, in times of need.
Over the years it has provided practical assistance for people during periods of illness, aids following temporary or permanent disability and assistance with education or training for the unemployed.
Nick Cornwell-Smith, Chair of the Trustees who oversee the IOSH Benevolent Fund, said: "We want to ensure that no-one connected to IOSH goes unsupported if they are experiencing difficulties.
"As members of IOSH, we are part of a network of more than 44,000 likeminded people across the world. We are often very quick to help each other out on practical safety and health issues, whether that is through sharing information and advice or providing professional support through the IOSH branch and group networks.
"When it comes to asking for help with matters away from the profession, however, many of us are reluctant to put our hands up. We want to get across that there is no need to be afraid to ask.
"Any of us could fall on hard times at some stage in our lives and it is good to know that IOSH and its Benevolent Fund are here to help."
A long-standing IOSH member recently received help from the Benevolent Fund in order to get back into work following personal difficulties.
The member, who has been kept anonymous by IOSH, said: "When I initially contacted the IOSH Benevolent Fund I was unaware of their role and how they could assist me.
"Given my circumstances there were a number of options presented to me on how they could assist. One of those options was the provision of IT equipment, namely a laptop and printer, not only to assist me in pursuing a successful resolution to my personal circumstances but also to assist me in returning to my career.
"My experience of the IOSH Benevolent Fund and those who dealt with and administered the application was nothing short of excellent. The attitude and approach was fantastic and further demonstrates the sound ethical standards that the Institution holds."
The fund is administered confidentially and applications are anonymised before they are reviewed by the Trustees.
For further details about the IOSH Benevolent Fund, including how to apply or make a donation, contact IOSH Committee Support Officer Elizabeth Gray in the first instance by calling +44 (0)116 257 3180, or emailing [email protected].
More information can also be viewed online at http://www.iosh.co.uk/benevolentfund
