Evening meeting with speaker Nicky Alberry

At our Wednesday evening meeting, Nicky Alberry was invited to give members and partners a talk on the Swindon Domestic Abuse Support Service. (SWA) Support is given to women or men and their children when they are being physically or mentally abused and facing danger. They are helped to leave their homes at very short notice and leave with virtually nothing. They are taken to the refuge and given their own furnished flat to stay for as long as they need until they are ready to leave. They are given everything they need, food, clothing, equipment and toys for their children. Those who are not in immediate danger are also supported by the various services offered by the SWA.

They have an outreach service which aims to protect, encourage and empower victims to assist them to lead independent lives free from abuse. Children living in the refuge are also supported by a specially trained team who also liaise with schools and colleges in the local area raising awareness on healthy relationships.

Victims are helped to move on offering them services such as help writing CV’s, finding employment or courses to obtain qualifications. They have recently started offering specialist counselling to the perpetrators in order that they might be able to rebuild relationships.

Of course these services all require funding and a great deal is received through donations from businesses, groups and individuals. They also have their shop in town which is located near to the closed Debenhams store where they sell donated items from the public.

A very eye opening and well prepared presentation.

Linda Locke
President