You wonderful, wonderful Spartaci!!
What an amazing, incredible week. Today, Lord Freud, the sponsor of the welfare reform bill in the Lords had to write a letter to peers answering our report!! I never, in a million years, thought I would write that sentence.
Tomorrow, I have possibly the most exciting news yet - I bet you can't believe it's even possible can you? But it is. The momentum has knocked me sideways - I'm humbled by the response from every corner of the web, from journalists, from unions, from politicians from charities, flooding in to my inbox so quickly I can't even reply.
And the evidence!! I have been sent emails and FOIs and links from everywhere - it feels like I'm watching the Government's plans for welfare reform crumble before my eyes!
My life has disappeared. I haven't had a "normal" day for about two months. I haven't washed up, I haven't cooked, I haven't spent any time with my astonishing and supportive family and kids. My 89 year old Dad has been ill in hospital but refused to let me stop doing this. I've been so ill, I have barely known my own name.
But I've done it with delight. I've done it with such enormous pleasure and wonder. Can you imagine a phone call from Newsnight? Or a chance to go against Miller? Or a chance to answer Lord Freud, in public?? How could I ever not do any of those things? I'd never forgive myself. It's worth having no clean clothes, a kitchen full of takeaway boxes and absolutely no control over any minute of any day. I feel rubbish all the time anyway, I might as well feel rubbish and excited.
But there is a bit of a flaw in the plan. We planned everything to the last detail, but we never expected to get this chance to actually be heard. We always thought the report was about putting our case - we never expected anyone to listen. After all, very few listened before, did they? So why would it change?
And now, I need to know what you want me to do next? I raised funds to put out a report, but in the last few days I had to use money to get to London, to lobby, to get taxis, to pay the £120 extra phone bill I built up.
Tomorrow, I might have the chance to go on a news programme - just two weeks ago I would never have thought it possible, and I'm learning fast, that these things don't always come off - but if I do, what will I do with my kids? I've already used up all of my favour bank about three times. What will we eat? I don't have any money, and I don't have permission to use yours!!
What should we do?? I'm prepared to keep doing this - I want nothing more than to make a case against these reforms on a platform that will be heard - but how do we fund it? Obviously a lot of news channels and papers pay for expenses, but I have to pay to get to meetings. (I am an epic blagger mind you ;)
I need to get my house straight - my family are beyond wonderful, but really, this is taking the.....
I hate this bit, but the truth is we have no money. We're in debt :( I started to go through my account yesterday to see what I needed to add to the expenses list and I was shocked to find I'd spent £550 from my own account! Just on convenient food when I'm too busy to cook for the kids, on petrol, on printer ink, on phone calls. Embarrassingly, I don't have it.
I don't know what to do! In the middle of such chaos it seems awkward to mention that there are practicalities, but if I don't write this now, I'll be spending your money - and increasingly mine - getting more in debt and I don't even know if you want me to!!
So please, just leave comments below and tell me what you think we can do. I have no idea where I stand any more on donations - this was about printing and distributing the report. Advice and suggestions would be good.
Do we carry on with the fund? Is there any other way of doing this?
It might all fizzle out after tomorrow and the DLA votes. If so, I'll come home, go to bed and sleep until Spring. But if not... What then?
To be utterly clear, I'm happy - honoured even - to do this. But I have to make it as easy for my family and my health as possible.
Please leave comments,
Sue
Tell me a paypal address and I will gift you a payment. A gift means Sue will not be charged to receive it. It is the least we can do guys, this woman has been to hell and back for us and yes any leftovers from the appeal fund you have permission from me to use ( I was £ 5!)
ReplyDeleteA
Do you need more money in the fighting fund? I for one said all along please use it for whatever you need, we know the extra hidden costs of being ill never mind trying to do what you are doing. Childcare/calls/meals even if that is what it takes for life to carry on then I for one will gladly donate some more!
DeleteSo if we use paypal and classify it as gift? Tell me the method, and the address to send it to.
Deleteplease tell me how to donate ? can't afford much but will try to help.thank you for caring.
DeleteI donated to #spartacusreport and I'm more than happy to donate again. It won't be much but I'm happy for you to use it however you see fit, and that includes your own expenses. You are simply fantastic Sue. Val xxxx
DeleteI love the work you're doing Sue. Being ill aswell, I cant imagine how you have gone on as you have. You have my utmost respect. As for continuing, whilst its important we do not give up as a group, health and family come first. I cannot afford to donate at this moment in time, awaiting a DLA upper tribunal case believe it or not, been living on £18 a week for over a year now and still fighting. But I will help you out when I can. Thats not an empty promise, you truly deserve our support for the work you've done here. You should not be out of pocket and if we can all pull together and donate just a little each, then hopefully you wont be :)
DeleteThank you Sue for standing up for those of us who don't have the strength.
Will gladly donate again and sure everyone else would. Thanks Sue.
ReplyDeleteGive me a Paypal address and I will donate. What you have done for fellow disabled people is priceless. Imagine if everyone who'd commented on your blog recently gave £5, or even £1. I would never in a million years have had the clarity of thought and the sheer ladyballs to do what you did. Let us help you, please.
ReplyDeleteHow do we support Sue - just say best way to get some dosh to you - oh and ask em for travel expenses too - require em even!
ReplyDeleteReastyBeasty
Let us donate. I will.
ReplyDeleteIf the media want you to go somewhere - please ask them to cover travel expenses and food allowance. They do have a budget for it, as part of pulling the programme together.
ReplyDeleteI will donate if you tell me how x
ReplyDeleteYes, Sue, you MUST use the fund to pay your expenses in fighting the fight for all of us! I'll be happy to donate more there, or to wherever is most helpful for you. We wouldn't be at this stage in the campaign without you, S & K - it's more than worrying that you've all become so ill doing this, and there is no way you should be out of pocket!
ReplyDeleteIf I can help with a donation just shout. I'm sure no one would begrudge you a few quid. Thank you so much for speaking out for me and all of us who are affected by this now
ReplyDeleteLet us donate, we will help. But be careful they don't count it as "income". Maybe get someone else to administer a paypal account, and get them to pay your bills and buy you supermarket gift cards instead of actually giving you the cash.
ReplyDeleteAlso echo what someone else said, the media should cover your travel expenses etc.
I am more than happy to continue with the fighting fund and any expenses you and your family are incurring because of the work you are doing on our behalf should come from this fund. Travelling and eating are essential expenses, use the fund and we will keep giving what we can to keep you going.
ReplyDeleteDo you want money sue, i'm not rich but I can donate £10 just now and try and get you more in time. Not a lot I know but hopefully more will come in.
ReplyDeleteI will gladly donate, you're doing so much for us. I'm housebound, & was worrying that I can't do much to help, but as long as there's a few quid in my bank account & I can click on a mouse I'll give what I can.
ReplyDeleteSue, if you need to use the fund for whatever you need, then do. If more is needed, which it probably is, then say so,just tell us how!
ReplyDeleteWithout you Sue there would be no story, there would be no cause. We would remain the nameless, faceless, voiceless millions. Use the money babes - hire a cleaner, a sitter, heck - a chef if you have to! We need you and we will support you - donating now (just got my carers allowance in!)
ReplyDeletePlease, please use the money raised any way you see fit. Please. I'm a student and I will try to give donate more to the fund if I have enough.
ReplyDeleteCan I make you biscuits? I will seriously make you biscuits and post them to you.
Sue, said from a loving place.....shush. Open the funds again. It's a donation, and donations are fine. Hell I put donations up on my art pages. You need to eat, and you need someone to come in and clean your house for you.
ReplyDeleteYou get what you give, I know that goes against British modesty, but TAKE it, woman.
I totally agree. I will gladly donate some money; you've been fighting for all our rights, it's the least we can do, and do with glad hearts.
DeleteI wish I lived closer; I'd come clean your house :-)
1. keep it going.
ReplyDelete2. it is easy to donate for people with a paypal account - just click on link at side of page n follow instructions where it says donate now to donate
3. I want to donate but cant set up a paypal account so is there any other way of donating?
you don't need a paypal account to donate as long as you have a card so should be fine. Only thing is last time we did this we buried Sue under so much dosh Paypal got concerned!
DeleteBlag expenses where you can, but the simple truth is we all need to pitch in. You're not a bank; you can't create money(and stuff it into a cynically contrived package to sell on the finance market).
ReplyDeleteSue, you must not go into debt over this. Can we still donate to the research fund?
ReplyDeleteUse the fighting fund for your expenses Sue, after all you're fighting for us and you so deserve all the help we can give you! Helping you out now is the very least we can do !
ReplyDeleteJust don't let us catch you living in a Californian mansion with diamond-encrusted door knobs, dollar-note bogroll and tasteless wallpaper.
ReplyDeletePaypal, or Chipin maybe, or Western Union, all take money on behalf of people. The money will probably count as "income" and be taxable, so be prepared to keep receipts and books. But Sue, you're not well! I'm very concerned that you'll be rendered incapable at the very point that your services are needed most. So let's think about this shall we. The report wasn't just authored by you, was it? What are your co-authors doing to share the load of press and media circuses? Maybe you need to establish a rota system for dealing with all this? Ask for volunteers?
ReplyDelete"It is the work of the Devil, which he employs from time to time, to encourage good people to do more than they can, in order that they may eventually be able to do nothing" (St Vincent de Paul, 17th Century)
If you are in the least bit worried whether people would think it unreasonable to take your own expenses from the fighting fund, then set up a second fund - Sue's Expenses Fund - I suspect you will see it quickly outstrip the fighting fund. Don't under estimate how much people love and respect you for all that you've done (and I want to hug your family for supporting you so well). xxx
ReplyDeleteWas going to replace an old fridge but it can wait. Rather not use paypal if pos. Use the money as you need to, whether that's to get the laundry done or do an interview on New at Ten. Just keep receipts and written record so ppl can see everything. Above all, though you're doing a fantastic job, the most important thing is to do what's best for you not everyone else. Take care.
ReplyDeletePaypal seems easiest/quickest if fund is depleted? Or carry on using fund, but renew funding appeal with brief info update re media activities exceeding all expectations. This campaign has operated on a miniscule budget so far and your bank balance has obviously taken a massive personal hit.
ReplyDeleteSue 2 things i am happy to GIFT you some money to live on second I may have not have been much use at collating research but I can at least offer something I do know about - funding bids etc I came accross the Joseph Rowntree Lobbying fund from £5k upwards perhaps its time to take the platform to another level if people wanted it. Not do anything different as such but creat a effetive lobbying and researching collective.
ReplyDeleteThis has been amazing and will continue to be amazing but not at the cost to yourself financially, mentally or physically
as someone pointed out.. if 500 people each gave 5 pounds that would be 250 pounds.
ReplyDeletethe only other thing to do would be Ebay auctions? artwork, tshirts, button badges, all within my capabilities?
any more thoghts anyone?
http://support.google.com/blogger/bin/answer.py?hl=en&answer=42534&topic=12495&ctx=topic
Deletecan you put adsense into your blog? and have adverts?
Of couse we must pitch in.. it's only bits but adds up..
ReplyDeleteIam Spartacus
Will give money via Paypal if you feel you can carry on!
ReplyDeletejust publish a paypal address and I'm sure everyone incl me who can will help. it will probably be the best investment they will ever make. This is so crutial this week, we need to make sure money is not an issue for victory.
ReplyDeleteCould you also set up a place where people could state "killer questions" you could choose from, to give yourself as much amo as possible, if you come up against the appropriate politicians in the media. Mik
Keep receipts, list it down and use the fighting fund to get this done. Your family shouldn't suffer while this is happening. You are doing this on our behalf because we can't, but you need to look after you and yours because you really ARE the only one who can do that. Do NOT kill yourself over this. If you insist on carrying on, then use the money to make it as easy as possible with things like ready meals. Thank you so much for doing this, I cannot begin to imagine where you are finding the strength.
ReplyDeleteAs others have said, give us an address and we'll donate. It's all the cost of campaigning for us all. I can't give much, but anything I can do - because you do so much for all of us.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Alison, they must pay expenses surely? I'm sorry you've got into debt over this... I don't know the answer because this is the first I've seen of your post. It's obviously touched a lot of people. Perhaps someone here is able to offer professional help to help you budget in the future once this is sorted? I can understand how you would have needed to use convenience food but it does add up, as sadly you've realised. All the best for your campaign!
ReplyDeleteIf you're anxious about the accounting, get the fund accounts administered by an accountant. are we talking about setting up a charity, long-term? of course, you should cover your costs - just keep receipts and accounts, separate bank accounts etc. Sue xx
ReplyDeleteAs my other Spartaci have said, I'd be more than happy to help with what little I can. Let us know how you want us to work this and we're here for you, I'm sure.
ReplyDeleteFirstly, keep yourself safe from scrutiny and attack in whatever way is necessary. Keep records, have independent oversight etc.
ReplyDeleteI'm happy for anything I've given so far to be used in any way it's needed (gave £20).
Do get media to pay expenses. Bit shocking if they haven't already offered that.
Let us know what more is needed and how we might get it to you. Is it possible to set up as a charity? Then CAF cheques can be used. Or is it counted as political?
Most important, look after yourself (Kaliya too).
And huge thanks.
Give us a means to help - a Paypal account number.
ReplyDeleteI second all these comments, especially Frith's one about biscuits!
ReplyDeleteThe biggest and best of charities need to fund their campaigns. Their executives and fund raisers need to get around and that cannot be paid for with fresh air. So long as you keep accounts of your expenditure I cannot see that you need worry. But you also need to think about help you need at home in the time when you are not there or are too exhausted to do the everyday household things that need doing. That too is a legitimate expense and you shouldn't overlook that. I'm happy to donate - can you tweet me a paypal address? Brilliant effort by you and everyone.
ReplyDeleteAgree...Let us donate, we will help. But be careful they don't count it as "income". Maybe get someone else to administer a paypal account, and get them to pay your bills and buy you supermarket gift cards instead of actually giving you the cash.
ReplyDeleteAlso echo what someone else said, the media should cover your travel expenses etc.
fibrojen
Question is... Do you carry on as you are and wait a bit, or do you set this up as a charity in its own right now? If that's the way you believe it should go. It's very difficult to raise funds for any venture like this so you'll need to be looking into grants and/or persuading influential people to become start-up benefactors. The point I'm trying to make is, clearly you can't go on entirely depending on your own resources to so this. Whether it is possible to get small grants from sumpathetic/supportive charities I'm not sure. But... at this stage everything is worth exploring. There may even be people out there who read this and are in a great position to advise you on that. I really hope so because you're doing a superb job, the momentum is there now. The other advantage with the momentum being there is that you're possibly more likely to secure a benefactor(s) than you were a week ago. How amazing is that?
ReplyDeleteI will donate money too. I was just thinking, I could donate say, £1.00 to you per month direct debit (which is very affordable for most people, I think) and if enough people agreed to do this (which would be very easy, technically...) then this would raise a significant amount of funds to help you with your work.
ReplyDeleteI also thought about sponsorship, maybe you could get a charity to sponsor you? Maybe a crohns one or something...
Is it possible for me to add your fund as the charity I'd like to support on Ebay, so that every time I buy something you get a little donation? If so how do I go about it?
ReplyDeleteCertainly give a paypal account no and I will send some - this is my disabled son's future we are talking about. I'm not good with paypal/technology so would prefer a PO box or something to send cash to - but paypal if that is what is available.
ReplyDeleteAnnie
I'm broke, but I can come up with £5, just like so many others have pledged. I'll send it as soon as you say whether you want it to go to the donate button on the side or a different account.
ReplyDeleteAlso! This might be a wacky idea but have you thought about trying to get a personal assistant to aid you with your work? There's a lot of unpaid internships and volunteers out there so why not... it could be a really strong force if you could find someone/several people in your local area that are willing to fight the battle too. I would SO do this if I could!
ReplyDeleteI'll donate gladly. Please just put instructions in words of one syllable as I'm having some processing hiccoughs intermittently.
ReplyDeletePS. What stars you are. Mmmmwaaah xxxxx
Sue,
ReplyDeleteYou are an inspiration to us all and we cannot thank you enough for what you have done so far. I will happily donate £10, not a lot but if everyone did that it would soon build up. Please do not hesitate to ask as everyone knows we will all be better off if we can win this fight.
Fifthed. Paypal!
ReplyDeleteAh. Not fifth any more. Clearly need to refresh more often. Still: Paypal!
ReplyDeleteI have not contributed to the fighting fund so can have no say on how it is used. You have done such a good job I definitely want to help. If I lived nearby I would come by and cook your family dinners for you but £10 hard cash will have to suffice. Please let us know how best to donate money for your expenses and costs. Best wishes and many thanks.
ReplyDeleteWould be more than happy to contribute, just let me know how :)
ReplyDeleteMe being someone who loves a good mental scrap with authority, I have to admire what you have done so far! If it was possible for me to contribute I would love to. Its nice to see the establishment get theirs behinds tanned a little.
ReplyDeleteRef the suggestion someone made of setting up a charity. We are just setting up a charity and finding out all of this stuff from scratch, so I hope you can benefit from our learning. Just to set your expectations, HMRC are currently running 13 weeks behind, so even if you set this up as a charity now, you wouldn't get a number (even a Unique Tax Reference) for ages. So, don't worry about all that now. Instead, look at how you can keep accurate records with minimal effort until things calm down. A shoe box is useful - scribble all the 'ins' and 'outs' on bits of paper with the date on, and bung them in the box. Sort the box (or get someone else to do it for you) when things calm down. If you only have space to do one thing, set up a bank account in the name of the campaign. Set it up as a *business* bank account, not a charity bank account, as the process is far far easier and quicker. You can convert it when you've got the number from HMRC. That way, you can keep money separate from home accounts. But, the shoe box is your fastest way to get control and be able to provide evidence if you ever should need to. Email me if you need. All the best.
ReplyDeleteDon't like paypal but used the donate button as time is of the essence.
ReplyDeleteDONATE BUTTON ... Big Orange Button .. Top Right
Dear Sue and Kaliya
ReplyDeleteYes, I'd like to help with money. It won't be great sum(s), a very small gesture of the immense thanks I send to all working on all this.
Love to you all
It's OK with me, Sue, to use the fund in any way necessary to carry on with the campaign. And I shall donate again.
ReplyDeleteBeth-fibrogirl suggests creating an effective lobbying and research collective. I have been thinking that this great Spartacus community that has sprung from the dedicated action of you and your team should be somehow substantiated and validated as a legitimate organisation, both 'of' and 'for' the disabled, so that you get on the lists of those to be consulted in future. Somebody may have a better idea than I do of how this should be done.
I wonder if anyone could set up a website for you, where people could register, so you would have a 'membership' and would know how many. And perhaps a forum, and an editorial page of course. And presumably you could continue to keep your donations going too as long as they are needed. Just some ideas,so that you can go on building. 'The Spartacus Collective'... great!
Willing to donate,but ,as others have said,keep receipts to cover your own back.
ReplyDeleteShall we pay into the existing fund .
For some reason the GoFundMe site won't let me go to the Payment page. I truly hope that that's only because lots of people are rushing to donate, but you might want to check it. I'll try again later.
ReplyDeleteMedia would send car for big TV thing. If invited by Department to meeting, would get expenses claim form which takes (used to take) months to refund. If going to talk to freelance journalists/members of parliament to win round to cause, onus is on campaigner to pay.
ReplyDeleteput a link to your paypal/fund page and I will happily donate to your fighting fund and please do spend it on allowing yourself to keep going, if that means cleaning support, admin, travelling then that's what it is. You are trying to protect all our futures, those of use who know we're disabled understand what this is all about, those who don't know what's round the corner are yet to realise what you are doing for them. Bless you.
ReplyDeleteI wrote this a while ago with Imogen_May (welfaresystem) we sparked ideas - then sadly my mental health took a dive and i fell off the planet. However its still an idea so feel free to have a look and if it fits use it.
ReplyDelete• Create an accessible campaigning platform for people to become as active as they wish
• Create a variety of templates that enable people to take part in current campaigns
• Provide a platform & space for groups and individuals to spark off a campaign (possibly with enough web hosting provide space for fledgling groups etc)
• Be a non partisan group – In so much as purpose is to facilitate campaigns or provide the wherewithal rather than position ourselves as the “umbrella”
• Create a similar platform as 38 degrees – smart, slick but relevant to disabled and chronically sick people and their carers
• Apply for funding to commission a website, social media training/advice. Commission/create templates and other accessible media eg pod casts
• Explore potential for website to act as a repository for blogs, groups etc be a information hub
• Complement existing grass roots activity, whist building consensus and longevity about a fairer system – which people living with a disability or chronic condition can self determine their own activity
• Grow a network of activists, supporters etc regardless of ability, political persuasion and knowledge
Create an accessible campaigning platform for people living with disability, long term chronic conditions etc. By creating a content management system that groups, grass root activists etc can use to launch campaigns pertinent to creating a fairer system, including campaigning against the current and proposed cuts to the welfare system.
Wellfairsystem wishes to create an infrastructure tool for people from the wide and diverse disabled community to self determine action, by creating accessible templates, blogs, collating facts in a useable format – eg levels of fraud in DLA.
The aim is to enable people to have their voice heard independently, to self determine how they respond and campaign for a fairer system. We acknowledge the work of charities and existing campaigning groups, however nothing exists to provide the infrastructure or platform that will break through into mainstream media and therefore make the disabled community visible in way it isn’t now. (lol how outof date already - fast moving times me thinks)
Great strides have been made with the increased use of social media twitter, facebook and blogs – however it is still fairly limited to people who are politically minded, have the knowledge and understanding of how things work. We believe more people can become involved if the tools were created to support this, if we use the existing innovative media available to raise awareness about people to sick or disabled to attend things like the occupy movement, large scale marches etc therefore remaining on the margins of society.
The funding would be used to secure and host a domain name for 3 years, commission a website interface with content management system integrated so groups can upload and manage information. To create software infrastructure for templates, embed pod casts, video and explore virtual reality software akin to second life.
Great stuuf, five years ago when the welfare reform programe began in earnest i helped set up a city wide campaign grouop there were also plans for a national network, then there wasn't much support and I became worse as did others involved, now i hope the time is now, go for it..
Deletebtw i hope my donation to the FF can be used for Sue, etc..
Just say the word as to how best to donate; I agree with everyone who has already commented. I noticed there were several celebrity tweets supporting Spartacus report at its launch; perhaps some donations from them would be nice too?
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI'm itching to donate. Let us know and I'm a-clicking...
ReplyDeleteIf you are in London doing interviews and stuff and you need somewhere to lie down, grab a shower, hide away, recharge or get online, please let me know. I live close to Westminster and I'm always home.
Or if you need a minion to bring you things and run messages while you're in London, let me know. I'm at your disposal anytime I can.
Good luck! Keep well and ASK if you need anything! I feel like I owe you some serious favours!
'Or if you need a minion to bring you things and run messages while you're in London, let me know. I'm at your disposal anytime I can.'
DeleteLol at Gherkinette, Sue will start to think she is a politician next!
actaully thats great..
Just say how and a donation will be winging its way to you!
ReplyDeleteAfter all; you are my representative and my voice(and doing a bloody good job at it!).
I am a) cringeing with embarrassment.
ReplyDeleteb) seething with rage that you should all have to do this and
c) honoured, yet again, by the trust you all show me.
Still, I guess if it's payment by results I've had a pretty good week, lol *uncomfortable laugh*
if for more than a few more weeks I think we'll have to think again, but for now, thank you for the donations coming into the fund.
I'll keep doing what I've been doing - I've made sure all the TV, radio and papers stuff has been paid for by them, and blagging lunch etc where I can.
When it comes to home though, I have to be really clear that - ironically - I need to use your bloody money (it makes me so mad) to replace the DLA I need to pay for the food I can't cook, the house I can't clean etc.
The ironies just keep stacking up eh?
I'm not good with this kind of thing, but thank you all so much. I'll keep doing everything I can to hold together the broadest coalition I can to oppose this bill.
Would be happy to donate by the fund or by paypal, just let us know what you want us to do. Can't afford huge amounts but would like to contribute something as without you and Kaliya there would be no campaign and we would just be rail-roaded by the politicians.
ReplyDeleteI think all of us would be happy to chip in, but you don't need more hassle having to keep track of what was spent on what. Do small gifts get taxed? Seems to me you need some practical help as much as money. Money to pay a PA, volunteers, supermarket gifts may be practical "Keep records" sounds simple, but as I know to my cost running my daughter's Direct Payments, it can be draining. I think you need a cabal more than an organisation.
ReplyDeleteAs for how to continue when the excitement dies down, and this awful Government goes back to assuming we will suffer in silence - then that is what we must NOT do. You have become visible, and have a voice. How you can use it without getting exhausted I don't quite know - except you do need background support, and if money will help you buy it - just ask.
Hi Sue, I think there are two issues - a short term and a longer term one.
ReplyDeleteIn the short term - you shouldn't be out of pocket and certainly not in debt because of this campaign on behalf of us all. I'm sure you've been subsidising this work for quite a while, not just in the last couple of weeks - so no doubt the expenses have been building up all that time. I've donated to the fund and I'd be only too happy for some of that money to be used to cover reasonable expenses for you. With regard to this I agree that it's important to keep a record of expenditure and to keep receipts to safeguard yourself.
In the short(ish) term I think it would also be worth contacting the major charities who are supporting the campaign to see if they have any grants or other sources of funding that could be used to support you. This might not be entirely straightforward and probably not quick (there might be a bit of bureaucracy involved), but as you're doing such a great job for them now might be the time to ask (I'm involved with one and will ask what the likelihood is for you).
In the longer term it might also be worth looking at any grants for individuals for campaigning work. This would mean you could continue on the same sort of basis as now - but with some funding. It wouldn't necessitate something as major as setting up a charity. I know some people have suggested setting up a charity and there might be a need for this, I don't know, but it's quite a big step with a lot of work involved and now, in the middle of all this frenzy is probably not the time to think about it. Maybe that's one for another day. I'm sure there are lots of us involved in small charities who'd be happy to help if it came to it.
Best wishes, thanks, and keep going!
Doesn't Peter Tatchell, the human rights campaigner function like this, basically a self employed campaigner, perhaps Sue can get in touch with him for info, he will be very sympathetic..
DeleteNominate one or two of us to request donations from those who can afford it. Give us (privately, by email) your bank details so we can donate simply online without messing around with PayPal.
ReplyDeleteI'll email you, Sue, with further thoughts. You are amazing but we can't take your family for granted.
You're eating into your own finances in order to represent all of us so it's only right and decent that we all share the costs. Watching you on newsnight was exciting and made me beam with pride. Spotted the spoons :) Gosh that must have been so scary! You are a fab brave lady. Happy to give a little because you give a LOT.
ReplyDeletePlease do keep fighting! We need to make sure Atos is taken out of the pitcher when it comes to the ESA asessments as well as DLA.Also if you need anywhere to stay while in London my building has a self containd guest suit that you can rent. I think they charge £15 for the first night and about £7 per night after that. The building is wheelchair accessible as its run by a jewish charity for the disabled. It would save alot of money on hotel rooms ect
ReplyDeleteAs far as I was concerned when I made my donation it was for the campaign, not just the report. Do whatever you think best on this.
ReplyDeleteSue...I donated you my £10 christmas bonus, and would gladly donate again...words cannot express my thanks and admiration for what you have done!
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteSue, you mention it might go on for a few weeks or more.
ReplyDeleteAt the moment, Twitter and the blog mean tasks which can be easily decentralised like emailing Lords work well. But for some critical tasks where you need people to be definitely free and have specific capabilities, e.g. "can do 1000 words on economic impact of cutting DLA by 6pm" or "close enough to go and buy printer paper", that's not so great.
Those of us with the privilege of having a job still may also have the spoons to be 'on call' for other things for a few days at a time, but would need notice to book time off. If you can see particular peak periods and know what you will need at that time, it might be worth advertising it in advance.
Made a donation a few days ago and will happily do so again shortly - it was for the campaign to spend and you and your team head up that campaign.
ReplyDeleteIf it needs to be spent on covering the phone bill, printer ink or even the loo rolls ... well they would all be legitimate office expenses anyway! You certainly do not need to be worrying about adding to your family's expenses at a time like this.
Spartacus has proved to be a rallying point for us all, whatever our abilities, and has shown that when we come together we have a strong and far-reaching voice that cannot just be ignored.
The Spartacus team are fighting for all who will be affected by Welfare Reform, so it is only right that if you need financial support at this time we do what we can to help you.
I donated £20. Thanks Sue for all the hard work. You must keep going with this. It will make such a difference to so many.
ReplyDeleteHey Sue is there a Paypal account I can donate to?
ReplyDeleteAlso Sue - you should ask media to pay for your travel (get BBC or Sky to send you a car) and if you've been on there already, they should also pay expenses like £50 a pop - or more if its TV. They do for others.
ReplyDeleteJust donated, use it for your expenses Sue, but be certain to keep all receipts, etc and log all calls, etc don't let our enemies have any ammunition
ReplyDeletegood luck..
btw, bit off topic but connected: The Unite Union are setting up 'community' membership/branches for unemployed/disabled/students/pensioners,etc with benefits and to give a voice to those groups, spartakists may want to join(us not the marxist lot!)and shape them, Unite may also offer support, i'm sure the PCS Union will, make use of our allies...
ReplyDeletehttp://www.unitetheunion.org/community'
You are doing just so incredibly, it is really amazing what you and others have done. Have just donated, you should definitely use it for anything, food, bills anything at all. You are using up your own DLA to fight for us all, it is the least we can do to pay a little back.
ReplyDeleteI was thinking, I live in central london so if you think it could be helpful to have a lay down/freshen up or stay here (even for a few days) whilst you have your crazy interviews your very welcome to. I will try to send you an email if you think it could be helpful.
I hope you can keep your strength up and take care (wish I could give you some of my spoons!!) xxxxxx
Sue, is it possible to email you? I can't find an email address or my brain has gone to sleep completely and am missing it if its obvious! I know you are completely inundated right now with emails but just wanted to offer some space in my flat if you need a sleep or night (or nights) to stay in central london.
ReplyDeleteI would feel a bit aprehensive about a complete stranger offering her living space for me to rest or take a nights kip so should say a bit about me. Am 27 year old female, living alone with ME so some days I can't get out of bed, or end up having a struggle getting out of pjs. So it would be completely familiar if you needed a place to have as a work station that consisted of a bed/sofa bed.
Please let us know if you need help on your trips into london! I'm sure there are lots of us, that if we are able would really like to help you any way we can. If I can help in some way whilst you are having your crazy media time in london, I would like to. Most of the time I am able to get out of the house, so would be happy to come and be your "assistant" whilst you are being interviewed and can get you food/drinks.
Take care, Katharine xxxxx
Sue, give me your personal paypal email address. Then don't you dare try and tell me you can't spend the money I send you for personal things. Okay?
ReplyDeleteMy daughter would have donated but she doesn't have a pay pal account, I am sure there are many in the same position.
ReplyDeletePerhaps someone could open a special bank account for the fund and a PO address to send cheques? I know Sue is bogged down by the work she is doing and must be exhausted, she needs someone to at least take over the financial side of this. Probably easier said than done but the last thing anyone wants is for Sue to make herself really ill over this.
As I understand it some other members have already been hospitalized. Sue please look after yourself and delegate if you can.
Please post a paypal and prepare to be praised in pounds.
ReplyDeleteeveryone - you can donate by paypal at the top right of this page - big yellow box saying Research Fund - donate now!
DeleteSue
ReplyDeleteUse the money in any way you need; just sent in my mums donation (who is 82) before I read this, because as she says "She can't fight for herself".
And let us take up any of the jobs you don't have time to do; post a list and watch us sign up.
Thank You again
Jayne
Please do continue I am behind you all the way. It would be a shame not to continue now after such positive progress. You have given a voice to the voiceless and made our concerns and situations public and have changed our image from scroungers into people worthy of respect and in genuine need . We have tasted success and need to go on. Thank you and everyone involved for all your efforts, you have been an inspiration. Today I have made only a small donation to the research fund but will make another later from time to time. I agree that you should use donations in any way that see as necessary to cover your expenses and so on.
ReplyDeleteChristine
Add a PayPal button, get an assistant, look after your health and pllease , please find time to rest. keep the receipts, and get advice.
ReplyDeleteSue - I have a background in running charities, voluntary and pressure groups, if you want me to act as an advisor on these kind of issues then I will be happy to. You can contact me on Facebook or Twitter (@disableddaddy)
ReplyDeletePlease allow me to contribute through Paypal as I wish to support you in any way I can.
DeleteWill donate again to research fund if that will help or elsewhere,just say where.
ReplyDeleteplease let us know how we can donate so that we can all continue fighting for our rights..I seem to remember there are sites where people can gift money to specific causes.. someone else would know more about it..I cant afford to send a lot but if you let us know how I will help.
ReplyDeleteThis whole thing has lifted me, inspired me, empowered me , restored some of my faith in humanity because being a pahas given me strengthrt of something so important and seeing we can make a difference
The greatest thing for me is Ive learned a footsoldier can work with a general to get a victory..in a way our biggest victory is that thru you and the rest of the team we have found a way to become a strong force and a force that matters.
Its so important that we are united , we will have many more battles in the future
jo AKA myrtlemaid
I too will happily donate something just let me know how?
ReplyDeleteSue, use the money in any way you NEED to - if that's a cleaner for the house so be it. I have donated today to the research fund and hope this helps. You have so many people united behind you but we all know without your health you cannot fight. I have emailed you before I live in Sussex if there is anything practical I can do to help ( currrently I am an unemployed mental health researcher) please contact me
ReplyDeleteAngela
Hi, thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the work you have been doing in behalf of is all,yes by all means let us know how we can donate some dosh,xx
ReplyDeleteNow, speak to any disabled athlete/Paralympian; Boycott London 2012, start the campaign; let's replicate the black power fist with the disabled fist. An empty stadium, an empty games matches our empty accounts and lives....
ReplyDeleteSue, having just made a donation to the Fund I am happy for you to use it anyway you need to....it is in ALL our interests that you are able to 'hold it together' and we trust you to do the right thing :-)
ReplyDeleteFor those who don't realise how to pay Sue, at the top right of this page - big yellow box saying Research Fund - PayPal accepted.
ReplyDeleteJust to let people know we now have a website: www.wearespartacus.org.uk
ReplyDelete