It’s not every weekend that Swindon gets to see inflatable obstacle courses, painted faces, great food and professional footballers all in the same place – but then again, the Festival of Fun was never about doing things by halves.
Held in GWR Park, the event brought together families, friends, and neighbours for a day of laughter and games, while raising money and awareness for Society Without Abuse (SWA). As well as the ever-popular family activities, visitors were treated to the sight of Swindon Town Football Club midfielders George Alston and Dylan Mitchell, joined by Women’s Captain Annie Colston, swapping the pitch for the goalmouth as part of the lively ‘Challenge the Goalie’ contest.
More than £600 was raised on the day – funds that will go directly towards SWA’s crucial work with both survivors of domestic abuse and those at risk of using harmful behaviours. “This was a great day of fun,” explained Natasha Moyles, Operations Manager at SWA. “Events like this help us keep services going and also allow us to work with future generations to help break the cycle of abuse once and for all.”
The event also signalled the beginning of SWA’s latest community campaign: the 50 for 50 Challenge. Marking half a century since the charity first opened a refuge in Swindon, the idea is simple – pick something connected with the number 50 and turn it into a fundraising activity. That could be baking 50 cakes, walking 50 miles, hosting a quiz for 50 friends, or even promising 50 days of good habits.
“Compared to the cost of providing our services, the funding we receive doesn’t stretch far enough,” added Natasha. “That’s why community support is so important. The beauty of the 50 for 50 Challenge is that everyone can get involved at their own pace, whether through something small and personal or something that brings a whole group together.”
The challenge runs from Monday 25 August to Tuesday 14 October, and plenty of inspiration will be shared on SWA’s social media channels over the coming weeks.
For details on how to sign up, visit: www.givengain.com/campaign/support-society-without-abuse or find them on Facebook and Instagram @SocietyWithoutAbuse.
If you, or someone you know, needs advice or support regarding domestic abuse, Swindon’s helpline is available on 01793 610610.
