Arena Magazine 2006 Issue 3 Summer Arena

Looking after you and your family

Anytime, anyplace!

'Union's help was priceless'

Debra is a 42 year-old mother of four

When Debra O'Donoghue was unable to return to work because of an accident she turned to Usdaw for help and was awarded £26,700 in compensation giving her and her young family some vital financial security.

"The union's help was priceless," said the 42 year-old mother of four. "The prospect of not being able to go back to work was frightening, especially with a young family to look after. It was a worrying time."

The accident happened at the Woolworth Distribution Centre, Swindon in 2001, when Debra was moving stock in the warehouse.

"I felt a sharp twinge in my back. I tried to carry on but couldn't , the pain was too severe," said Debra.

"At the time I thought I'd only be off work for a few weeks. But I soon realised I was looking at a long lay off and I was right because I couldn't return to work - it was a shock. I was only in my late 30s at the time."

"My rep advised me to fill in the legal forms. From there on the union took care of everything.

"I had real peace of mind. My solicitors, consultants and physio were all paid for and it didn't cost me a penny. There is no way I could have taken care of this on my own.

"Most people don't realise how valuable the union is until they need help. I don't know what I'd have done without Usdaw's backing, it really is money well spent."

'I can't thank Usdaw enough for its support'

20 year old Verity Milner from Copmanthorpe near York

Mum's the word for 20 year-old Verity Milner who was injured in a road traffic accident, but her mother's Usdaw membership came to the rescue with free legal advice and a cheque for £3,500.

The accident happened three years ago when the car she was a passenger in left the motorway and ended up in a ditch leaving Verity with hip and neck injuries.

"I didn't have a clue what to do," said Verity. "My mum remembered Usdaw's free legal assistance for family members and she contacted the union for advice.

"It couldn't have been easier. Within no time at all I had a union solicitor who helped me lodge a claim against the driver's insurance company. I had expert legal advice and professional medical attention.

"My solicitor kept me up to date and my claim was settled last November.

"I can't thank Usdaw enough for all its help and support. I don't know what I'd have done without it. I was delighted with my settlement. Thanks mum and Usdaw!"

Remember: Legal Plus also covers members for any accident - any time, any place - not just at work. It can also provide advice and assistance in road traffic accident cases for members' families, who share the same household.

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