About us

© Northumberland National Park MRT.

Why do we need a benevolent fund for mountain and cave rescuers? Simply, because accidents happen.

Mountain and cave incidents, by their nature, often occur in the most extreme environments. Mountain and cave rescue teams can be called at any time of the day or night, frequently putting their own lives and families on hold to help those in need.

If a team member sustains an injury during a call-out, quite apart from any physical rehabilitation required, that injury might impact on his or her ability to earn. Their family might struggle financially and emotionally.

Often though, it’s not a specific call-out that triggers the need for support. It may even be a non-operational team member or family member who needs our help. Our aim is always to get that support to the people who need it — and, it goes without saying, to get operational team members back into action — as soon as possible.

If you think you might need support from the benevolent fund, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. To coin a phrase: If in doubt: reach out!

How we can help

We can provide a range of services, including immediate and longer term financial support, physical rehabilitation through physiotherapy and other resources, and emotional support through access to counselling services. Head here to find out more…

Who’s who in the trustees…

The Rescue Benevolent Fund comprises five trustees and a number of regional ambassadors. The trustees are: Neil Woodhead (Chairman), Shirley Priestley (Treasurer), Judy Whiteside (Secretary), Bill Whitehouse, Huw Birrell and Brendan Sloan.