Steve Bullman

Trade charity Perennial has been helping people across the arb industry when they are facing tough times for many years and has recently extended its services to cover everyone working in forestry. Perennial offers a lifeline to those in need, delivering frontline financial and practical support and advice to people facing crisis as a result of difficulties such as illness, injury, poverty and debt. Perennial’s delivers its support through its nationwide team of highly trained caseworkers and debt advisers, who visit people in their own homes to get to the root of the problem. No membership is required to access Perennial’s help and all support is completely free and confidential. Julia Hayne, Director of Services at Perennial comments: “We understand that working in arboriculture and forestry can be physical, seasonal, not highly paid and at risk from the effects of the weather. In today’s challenging economic times, even those with steady work can struggle and the self-employed can be particularly vulnerable. Often people have no cushion to fall back on should something unexpected happen. That means that an accident or illness can devastate a family’s livelihood. Perennial is there for anyone facing uncertain times – please don’t be afraid to get in touch if you or someone you know needs help.” Help is available both to those who are in work and retired, as well as their dependent family members, and continues for as long as it is needed, even if that means a lifetime. A large part of this involves helping people access additional financial support in emergency situations. This is sometimes offered directly as a grant, sometimes through other charitable funds or often via the complicated benefits and welfare system. Last year Perennial helped people access nearly £1.9 million in direct financial help. Rebuilding life after tragedy Perennial is there as a safety net when unexpected tragedy strikes. Marek was working as a tree surgeon and conservation manager at a golf course, when he fell from a tree and hit his head. He had a young family, with a baby on the way but his life was instantly shattered. His devastating fall resulted in severe brain injury and a medically induced coma. Marek and his partner Ann Marie were introduced to Perennial within a week of the accident. Perennial was able to help them overcome the many challenges that a life changing injury presents. They gave with financial arrangements and navigating the benefits system, as well as being there for emotional support and they continue to support the family for the long haul. Ann Marie said: “They were like cuddly arms, giving a big hug and taking away all the pressure of everything else I have to deal with to survive.. If it wasn’t for Perennial, I just don’t know how I could have dealt with it all.” Watch the video of Marek and Ann Marie here: www.perennial.org.uk/marek