DWIA Members recognised that there was a need to set up a Sick benefit fund to provide financial support for those who did not qualify for government sick pay to ease the stress of not having any income to provide for their family. This was called “The Benevolent Fund” which was managed by DWIA elected executive management committee members. All related discussions would take place at executive management committee and / or at full members meetings  

In March 1974 the Benevolent fund was established at a DWIA member’s meeting subscription started at 10pence per week (£1.23 today) 

The benevolent fund ran for six years until 13.12.80. At this stage DWIA members were working taxpayers and as such became eligible for “Invalidity Benefit” United Kingdom's National Insurance scheme introduced in 1971 for employees who had been invalided out of their trade or occupation after sustaining an injury. This is commonly known now as the government Statutory sick pay (SSP).  

At a DWIA members meeting on Saturday 13th December 1980 held at Madeley Centre Madeley Street Derby DE23 8EX The membership accepted the executive management committee proposal that the remaining balance of the BF £853 .86 (£3 901.38 in 2022) should be to pay out to for Christmas festive season.