Cirencester Friendly has joined forces with RedArc, an independent personal nurse adviser provider, to introduce ‘Friendly Voice’.

This is a free, confidential telephone service that offers practical help and emotional support in worrying times, such as bereavement, serious illness or injury.

Friendly Voice will be available to all new and existing Members and their spouses as part of their income protection contract with the Society. When needed, a personal nurse adviser will be able to provide members with information and support for as long as necessary. Where appropriate, they can also arrange additional services such as a course of counselling or therapy, a one off home visit or a series of phone calls from a specialist nurse.

Paul Hudson (pictured), chief executive of Cirencester Friendly, said: “Friendly Societies, like Cirencester, have a long history of caring for their members beyond mere contractual provision.

“We are delighted to be able to carry on that heritage by providing additional support to all our members and their spouses through Red Arc. This is the first of a number of additional member orientated initiatives we will be offering and is part of our continued commitment to being there for our members when they need us most.”

Christine Husbands, managing director of RedArc, added: “We are thrilled to be working with Cirencester Friendly who have recognised the importance of practical advice and emotional support as well as the financial pay-out. This makes for the best possible customer outcome in very difficult circumstances.”