Glasgow branch donates £14,000 to NUJ charities
NUJ Extra, the union’s welfare charity, and the George Viner Memorial Fund (GVMF), which provides bursaries to journalism students from Black and ethnic minority backgrounds, each received £7,000.
Jim Boumelha, chair of the GMVF trustees, said:
"The commitment and generosity of the NUJ Glasgow branch is a model of solidarity that makes the NUJ a union we are all proud to belong to. Covid-19 year has been difficult for all journalists, but for students from Black and ethnic minority background it has been particularly challenging.
"You truly make the difference for them, and we are extremely grateful. I thank on behalf of the George Viner Fund trustees all the branch members and officials for making this generous donation which will allow us to continue assist Black and ethnic minority journalism students take a first step towards a career in journalism."
Glasgow gives a monthly payment to NUJ Extra and has frequently held events to support both charities. John Matthews, branch member, said:
“I'm really delighted to let you know that the NUJ Glasgow branch just agreed with my proposal to give £7,000 to both NUJ Extra and the George Viner Memorial Fund. I would strongly encourage others to make similar commitments.”
Chris Wheal, chair of the NUJ Extra trustees, said:
“Glasgow branch has been one of our long-time supporters so I was delighted when John Matthews said he was going propose the branch released its substantial reserves to the union's charities. I know there were some other strong candidates for the branch’s money so It feels like a double endorsement that the Glasgow NUJ members chose to donate to us so generously.
"I hope Glasgow has set an example to any other branches that have amassed funds through these dark times. We are here for when NUJ members need that little extra. If branches have any extra funds, please donate them. We will spend them wisely.”
Donate to the George Viner Memorial Fund