An applicant is ordinarily expected to make his claim through his Circle Benevolent Board. However, there is an alternative procedure

This alternative procedure allows a claim to be submitted through the Director rather than through the Circle Benevolent Board.

Some Members, particularly those who have held high office, are reluctant to approach the Circle Board and are embarrassed to admit need, particularly if the Circle Board consists of sons, nephews, past pupils, fellow parishioners, former employees etc. The Trustees will give sympathetic consideration to a claim with one signature provided that the signatory is a Director and the usual criteria are met.

REQUIRED CRITERIA

Financial assistance supported directly by the Director would normally be for a Brother who:

• Has held a significant position in the Circle or the Province;
• Has been or is involved in the Circle Benevolent Board;
• A Brother who has been a member of a National Council or the former Grand Council.

In such circumstances the first step for a Brother/Widow is to call the Director (in strict confidence) to explain his position and seek agreement of the Director to use the Direct Approach procedure.