CISWO – the Coal Mining Charity – has launched a new awareness campaign calling on families, friends, and community members to encourage former miners to access the support they may need but rarely ask for.
At the centre of the campaign is a powerful and relatable message:
He’d never ask for help… but he’ll listen to you
Many former miners continue to face significant challenges related to health and wellbeing, independence, and financial stability. Despite this, they often remain reluctant to reach out for assistance. As the campaign highlights, “Many former miners don’t reach out for support, even when they need it most.”
Empowering Communities to Make a Difference
CISWO’s Personal Welfare Service provides tailored, confidential support designed to improve quality of life for former miners and their families. The charity is encouraging those who know or care for former miners—whether family members, neighbours, or trusted friends—to play an active role in signposting this vital help.
By simply sharing information or starting a conversation, individuals can make a meaningful difference and potentially help someone access life‑changing support.
A Message from CISWO’s Chief Executive
CISWO Chief Executive, Nicola Didlock, emphasised the importance of community involvement:
There are many former miners and their partners who continue to struggle in silence, even when help is available. That’s why we’re appealing directly to the people who know them best—family members, friends and neighbours who often spot the signs long before support is ever requested.
These trusted relationships are vital. A simple conversation or a gentle nudge can make all the difference in helping someone access the support they deserve.
I urge everyone in former mining communities to ‘let them know’ that CISWO is here. Your encouragement could be the vital link that enables a former miner to get the help they need and may not feel able to ask for themselves.
About the Personal Welfare Service
CISWO’s dedicated Personal Welfare Service team supports former miners and their dependants in key areas including:
- Health and wellbeing guidance
- Independent living support
- Help with welfare benefits and financial assistance
The service ensures no former miner faces hardship alone. Support is accessible, personalised, and delivered with understanding.
Reaching More People Across Mining Communities
By raising awareness through this new campaign, CISWO hopes to reach more former miners and empower those around them to start important conversations. A small prompt from someone they trust could be the first step toward improving their wellbeing and long‑term independence.
You can find out more about the Personal Welfare Service on CISWO’s website here: Helping You – CISWO