The Merseyside branch of the War Widows Association of Great Britain will be awarded the Freedom of the City of Liverpool next week.
On Monday 1 December, at Liverpool’s Town Hall, representatives from the association will receive the honour recognising their hard work and determination in ensuring those who have lost loved ones during conflict, whenever they occured, receive financial support.
Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Councillor Erica Kemp said: “I am delighted to be awarding the Merseyside Branch of the War Widows Association of Great Britain the Freedom of the City of Liverpool
“Their dedication and commitment to ensuring a fair pension scheme for those who are bereaved because of conflicts is admirable. Their continued support and friendship to those dealing with loss is inspiring.
“Without their determination many women today would be suffering financial hardships in addition to the heartbreak of losing a loved one and they are a most worthy recipient.”
Founder Member and Regional Organiser for Merseyside, Mrs Kathleen Woodside MBE said “It is an honour and privilege to receive this award from the City of Liverpool. We are overwhelmed, and I am particularly proud it is the Merseyside Branch receiving the recognition.”
National President and supporter of the War Widows Association, Baroness Fookes said: “It never occurred to me that the Freedom of a city as important as Liverpool would be conferred on the Merseyside Branch of the War Widows’ Association of Great Britain. To say that I am thrilled would be an understatement!
“It is especially fitting that it should be awarded to the branch where it all began with a few widows seeking justice and redress.
“On behalf of all members of the Association I offer our grateful thanks to the city for the bestowal of its highest honour.”
Formed in Liverpool in 1971, the association is now a national organisation fighting for and supporting Britain’s “forgotten women”. The War Widows Association offer, not only financial assistance but also provides a friendly network of support and activities which are available to those who have been bereaved during conflict.
Unfortunately, due to recent conflict, this vital service is still required today to help and support those who have lost a loved one in action.
• It has been recently announced that from April 2015, those who remarry, cohabit or form a civil partnership will be entitled to a pension for life.
