The Society originated in 1847 to assist ladies of Scottish birth or education with professional or business backgrounds who exist on low incomes and have limited savings.

History
Benefits
Applications
Financial Support

History
The first meeting of the Society took place in Edinburgh in 1847 with the purpose "to supplement the limited incomes of aged and indigent gentlewomen of Scotland above 50 years of age and unmarried, for whose wants no special provision had hitherto been made by any of the numerous and excellent Charitable Institutions of this country".

Initially the mode of raising funds was by annual subscription not exceeding two shillings and six pence. and during the year the annual report reveals one thousand two hundred and fifty two pounds four shillings and nine pence was raised and eight hundred and seventy eight pounds distributed to Annuitants.

From this modest beginning the Society continued to receive steadily increasing and generous support by way of subscriptions, donations and legacies from all parts of the country. The number of Annuitants on the roll had grown to 255 by 1850.

It was not until 1902 that the Society extended financial assistance to widows with professional or business backgrounds who existed on low incomes and limited capital resources.

In 1930 a petition was presented and the increasing influence of the Society's work was recognised by the granting of a Royal Charter approved by King George V. In that year twenty thousand nine hundred and seventy pounds was distributed to 1011 Annuitants.

Successive Committees of Management have continued to administer the funds of the Society conscious of the intentions of its founders, but adapting successfully to changes in social circumstances over the years. During the last five years, or so, nearly four and a half million pounds have been distributed to Annuitants and currently approximately 900 ladies are on the roll. Now over 150 years on from its foundation, the Society continues to provide vital and much appreciated charitable support to those intended to benefit by its founders and benefactors.

Doris Hatvany's History of IGF
A full copy of the history of IGF written by Doris Hatvany is available in PDF format by clicking here.

Top

Benefits
The Society distributes annual charitable annuities to ladies on the roll with other non recurring grants targetted to meet specific needs. The income and capital limits for admission to the roll and the level of annuities and other grants paid are regularly reviewed.

Details of current income and ceilings are available from the Secretary and Cashier.

The Society also provides regular visiting and counselling advice. A Clothing Department operates from the office and provides a useful adjunct to the Society's work.

Top

Applications
Applications are considered from Spinsters, Widows and Divorcees of Scottish birth or education who have attained the age of 50 and are the daughters or widows of professional or business men. Ladies who have attained this status by their own endeavours or were prevented from doing so by devoting their lives to the care of relatives are also considered.

The forms of application are obtainable from the Secretary and Cashier and are considered by the Committee of Management at meetings held in May and November each year. Completed forms should be lodged with the Secretary and Cashier before 31 March and 30 September for consideration at these meetings.

All applications are treated with the strictest confidence.

Top

Financial Support
Over its long and honourable history the Society has been fortunate to enjoy generous financial support by way of donations, covenants and legacies which has enabled it to continue the work of its founders and make a positive contribution to the welfare of the Annuitants. Continued support is invited and will be gratefully acknowledged. The Annual Report is available on request from the Secretary and Cashier.

If you are interested in financially supporting the work of the Society then click here.

Top