Nurses’ league donates kitty to nurse hardship fund following closure

The Liverpool Royal Infirmary Nurses’ League has given more than £4,800 from its former “benevolent fund” to the Cavell Nurses’ Trust, which supports nursing staff who are in crisis.

“Cavell Nurses’ Trust seemed to be the ideal way for us to continue to support our nursing colleagues”

Carolyn Rankine

The league was formed in 1933 by matron Mary Jones to form a bond between all nurses who trained at the Liverpool Royal Infirmary, which shut in 1978.

Upholding the honour, dignity and values of the nursing profession and supporting the advancement of nursing practice was another focus of the nurses’ league.

However, the league took the decision to close following its 85th anniversary celebrations in 2018 due to a decline in members joining.

In addition, an ageing membership meant many of those who were part of the association found it increasingly difficult to travel to its annual general meeting.

Explaining why it chose to pass its funds to Cavell Nurses’ Trust, Carolyn Rankine, the last president of the nurses’ league, said: “Having had a ‘benevolent fund’ of our own to support any members needing financial help, the league wanted to ensure that the remaining funds would be used for the same purpose.

“We’re also touched that their members felt strongly that UK nurses should be supported”

John Orchard 

“Cavell Nurses’ Trust seemed to be the ideal way for us to continue to support our nursing colleagues requiring help in the future.”

Cavell Nurses’ Trust is a charity that supports UK nurses, midwives and healthcare assistants, both working and retired, who are suffering personal or financial hardship often due to illness, disability, older age and domestic abuse.

John Orchard, chief executive at Cavell Nurses’ Trust, said the league’s contribution would “significantly help turn around the lives of some of the nursing professionals who call us for help”.

“We’re also touched that their members felt strongly that UK nurses should be supported when they face difficulties and so will ensure this money is put to good use,” he added.

https://www.nursingtimes.net/news/charities/nurses-league-donates-kitty-to-nurse-hardship-fund-following-closure/7029696.article