Meet our almoners

The function of a livery company’s almoner is to provide support, care, and welfare assistance to members of the company, particularly those facing illness, hardship, or personal difficulties. The role is deeply rooted in the tradition of livery companies, where members look out for one another as part of a close-knit community.

We caught up with our joint almoners, Paster Master Dids Macdonald OBE and Court Assistant Lizzie Shaw, to find out more about what the role entails.

What does the term almoner mean, and why is it important in the context of this organisation?
The term ‘almoner’ originally meant ‘distributing alms (money)’. Now, much as we would like to distribute money, we hope we serve as a compassionate conduit and a beacon of support for every member. The almoners are here to ensure that no one within our ranks should feel alone or neglected, especially during times of difficulty or distress.

How can the almoner provide support to members of the community?
As joint almoners, as soon as we are contacted about someone who is ill or maybe has had an accident or is recently bereaved, we can respond with a card, email, telephone call, or a visit if it is practical. It is just a simple, informal way to show that we care.

How does the almoner assist members who are facing illness or hardship?
By contacting our members for whatever reason, we can establish the difference between an illness or if it is a case of hardship, we can refer them to Hugh and the welfare team.

What kind of support might the almoner provide, such as financial assistance or emotional care?
Each time we are contacted, the response varies – from a card, a bunch of flowers, picking up the phone and having a chat, or an email. No two situations are the same, but it is just a gesture knowing that someone from our community cares.

How does the almoner work with other committees or resources within The Furniture Makers’ Company?
All committee chairs have been kindly asked to put ‘Any almoner referrals’ on their agenda. Hopefully, they all have. In this way, we can ensure that our intel comes from all areas of the country, and we are a conduit for any intervention.

What can members do to contribute to the culture of care promoted by the almoner’s role?
Just keep an ear to the ground and let us know. A flyer is also being created in the new member packs so that each time someone joins us, they are aware of the role that the almoner plays within the livery. So, please do let us know so that no one is forgotten, if a kind word or gesture might be appreciated.

What are some of the actions the almoner might take to foster a sense of community and belonging among members?
We both talk about the role, share any intel with our networks, and keep the subject on radar, so thank you for giving us the opportunity for this interview. We are both spontaneous, and there is no formality to our actions other than our mantra: If there is a bump in the road for anyone, we’re here. For example, through our network across the country, we can arrange a personal visit if this is appropriate.

Why is confidentiality emphasised in the almoner’s role when providing support?
We don’t create any sort of formal report other than in terms of getting the word out. We both obviously discuss things between us because we want to encourage trust if anything is sensitive or not for general release.

How does the almoner collaborate with the welfare trustee to offer additional support to members?
We feel that we have a finger on the pulse to intervene if necessary, and we hope we are another pair of hands to help welfare identify any welfare help or interaction.

How can someone contact the almoner for help or to request support for a fellow member?
A simple email to almoner@furnituremakers.org.uk will reach either Lizzie or myself, and one of us will respond. Alternatively, drop us a line at Lizzie@celtheath.com or macdonalddeirdre2@gmail.com.