Medical Welfare “I don't know what I'd have done without the union” A Welbeck pitman for 22 years, Dave Richardson hadn't had a day off sick in 16 years. He never dreamed that noisy “pick point” work could permanently damage his quality of life. But then a recurring ear infection took an alarming turn – and the 38-year-old Mansfield Woodhouse dad of two had some devastating news. He says: “I had three months of treatment but couldn't shake off the infection and was facing a three-month wait to see a consultant. But the union stepped in and, thanks to the welfare fund, I was seen in less than three weeks.” At welfare officer Jeff Wood's suggestion, Dave underwent an MRI scan, also funded through the scheme – and the result was to prove a massive shock. He says: “I discovered I had a perforated ear drum and Meniere's disease, which causes violent vertigo and sickness. I've been told I can't go back to working underground and now I've been referred to a specialist in Sheffield , again, thanks to the help from the fund. “It's been a huge shock. In six months I've gone from being a very healthy 38 year old to facing having to drop off work. I'm taking 22 tablets a day to reduce the dizziness and vomiting and the pit put me on to surface work. I am hoping now to carry on working part time. I certainly want to keep my UDM membership. “My life has changed totally in the space of six months and I don't know what I would have done without the union. I didn't have to do anything, I made my hospital appointments through the union and just passed on the bills to them. It was made so easy for me and, without them, I might still have been waiting to find out what was wrong – or even making things worse. “It's a brilliant facility and even better, your family is covered as well - but so many of my workmates don't seem to know it exists.”.
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