ABOUT THE BDCI

The BDCI (Butchers' and Drovers' Charitable Institution) is the meat industry's own trade charity. It exists to provide support for those who work, or have previously worked, in the meat industry but have fallen on hard times, regardless of their age or circumstances. Widows, dependants and children are also eligible for assistance. Grant applications vary significantly and can come from people of all ages.

Help is given in two ways:

• One-off grants to help towards a major expense
• Assistance towards fees in a residential or nursing home

In recent times the BDCI has seen an increase in the number of applications from younger people than previously. So as well as helping to supplement the income for retired meat industry employees, we're increasingly granting funds which can help improve people's quality of life. Examples of successful applications include:

• Neil, 38, working as a butcher in a Morrisons supermarket who received a contribution of £2,350 to pay for a specialised wheelchair for his disabled son
• Rosemary, 56, whose late husband was a butcher, needed £600 to re-wire her home after she smelt burning one night

Applications for Assistance

The charity's rules state that assistance may be given only to those persons, or their widows, widowers, partners or dependent children, who are, or have been connected with the meat trade within the UK.

Applications are considered at the bi-monthly BDCI Grants Committee Meeting. To apply for assistance, applicants must provide evidence of their connection with the meat trade as well as financial details, including any income they and their partner receive.