Benevolence in the UK: The Enduring Power of Mutual Support
Long before the NHS, Universal Credit, or state pensions, people in the UK relied on benevolence. For centuries, communities came together through friendly societies, and benevolent organisations to protect each other from life’s hardships. Today, as public services face strain and living costs rise, this tradition of mutual support is more important than ever.
What is a Friendly Society?
A friendly society is a mutual organisation where members join together for a shared financial or social purpose. They are organisations owned by their members. Traditionally, these societies provided insurance, savings, and support during hardship.
Friendly Societies Today: Meeting Modern Needs
Even with the welfare state, gaps remain. Friendly societies or mutuals now help with a variety of needs to support those facing hardship and their local communities. In 2024, Foresters Friendly Society provided over £1.71million through discretionary grants to members and charitable donations.
Find out more about how Foresters Friendly Society can support members.
Foresters Friendly Society: 190 Years of Benevolence
Founded over 190 years ago and serving thousands of members, Foresters Friendly Society is one of the UK’s oldest mutual societies. As a member-focused organisation, Foresters provides:
1. Discretionary Financial Grants
Support in times of hardship for unexpected costs, such as home repairs, educational expenses and more.
Explore all discretionary grants
2. Specialist Support Services
Foresters Care: Practical and emotional telephone support through serious and long-term physical and mental illness, trauma, eldercare and bereavement, provided by RedArc.
3. Social Connection and Community
Branch events: From coffee mornings and theatre trips, to seasonal celebrations. Social events are opportunities to meet new people, promoting community and friendship.
4. Giving Back Through Charity
Members can take part in charitable activities to support amazing causes like the Society’s Annual Charity Appeal.
Why Join a Friendly Society?
Friendly Societies such as Foresters use revenues generated for the benefit of members (customers). This member-focused approach can be seen in key ways:
- Values-Driven: Members are at the heart of mutual organisations.
- Democratic Decisions: Members have a say on how friendly societies are run by attending Annual General Meetings.
- Member Support: Friendly Societies often provide opportunities to socialise and utilise discretionary member benefits.
The Future of Mutuality in the UK
Friendly Societies continue to provide:
- Social connection and community
- Mutual support and benevolence grounded in shared values
Mutuals are and always have been about helping people help themselves, playing a vital role in society today.
Take the Next Step
If you’re not already a member of Foresters Friendly Society, you can find useful information below about our membership package.
Learn about discretionary benefits: Member Benefits & Support
Find your local Foresters Branch: Branch Finder
Need support now? If you’re already a member and you are facing hardship, take a look at the support services and discretionary grants available.
All grants offered by the Society are discretionary. Membership benefits are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority or the Prudential Regulation Authority and are regularly reviewed to ensure they remain relevant. Qualifying periods apply.