Locks and Security News: your weekly locks and security industry newsletter
17th April 2024 Issue no. 701

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Introducing the WHCA Health Cash Plan from OPAL

The Health Cash Plan aspect of OPAL, the newly formed Organisation of Professional Accredited Locksmiths, part of the Security Media Group who are publishers of this e-zine and Locks & Security Magazine, is one that has attracted many to consider the benefits of becoming members. As an introduction to the Plan, we invited Allen Hughes, director of the WHCA to trace its history and outline the benefits of membership.

As like many Health Cash Plans organisations, the WHCA had an association with its local hospital, as it's full name suggests, Worcester Hospital Contributors' Association. The organisation took this title in 1948 following the creation of the National Health Service.

These organisations were set up to provide cash assistance to people in their time of need, such as an accident, ill health, or other qualifying health related problems.

The WHCA is a mutual association, which has mutual trade, and is non profit making as it operates in the interest of its members. It is managed by its Trustees, and it's Committee Members.

It is a member of the British Healthcare Care Association, and is governed by the Financial Services Authority.

In early 2000 The Orchard Healthcare Plan was introduced, at a cost as little as £1.07 per week, and is the simple and affordable way to ease the burden of an individual's day-to-day healthcare costs. The Plan provides assistance by paying for regular treatments, such as a visit to the dentist or optician whilst also helping to pay for more occasional treatments such as physiotherapy, osteopathy, heath screening, specialist consultations and a wide range of other treatments.

WHCA, based in Worcester, have been providing a personal, friendly service to local companies and individuals, and provision of healthcare benefits since 1921, bridging the gap between Private Medical Insurance and the NHS at an affordable cost.

There are four Orchard Healthcare Plans to choose from, each one providing different levels of cover, including a Family Plan that will cover a partner and children too. The WHCA Orchard Healthcare Plan also includes a FREE Personal Accident Plan which will pay up to £10,000 if individuals are involved in an accident, and also a free Telephone Helpline Service.

What will interest many locksmiths is the generous compensation given in respect of loss of fingers or thumbs, and loss of sight of one or both eyes. OPAL has negotiated special rates with immediate cover for members (saving 3 months qualifying period). All you need to do if interested is contact the WHA and quote your OPAL membership number. 

Help when you need it. 

For more information about the scheme please visit our website, www.whcaorchard.com, or call us on 01905 729090.

For more information about OPAL go to www.opal.uk.net to join email: [email protected]

21st March 2012