The High Sheriff of Wiltshire has visited a Swindon charity supporting victims and survivors of domestic abuse ahead of a fundraising concert taking place later this week.
Dr Alexander Goodwin met staff at Society Without Abuse (SWA) to learn more about the organisation’s work before this year’s High Sheriff Charity Concert, which will be held at Christ Church in Old Town on Saturday, 13 June.
The annual concert, organised by Rotary Swindon Cares, will raise money for SWA, which supports women, men and families affected by domestic abuse across Swindon and the surrounding area.
During his visit, Dr Goodwin heard about a range of the charity’s services, including its work with young people through the HOPE Outreach programme and the HOPE Schools Award, which helps schools educate children about healthy relationships and recognise the signs of abuse.
He also learned more about Open2Change, SWA’s behaviour change programme, which works with people who have used abusive behaviours in relationships. The programme aims to reduce repeat offending and help create safer futures for families affected by domestic abuse.
In addition, the charity outlined its Ambassador training programme, which equips businesses, organisations and community groups with the knowledge and confidence to recognise domestic abuse and signpost people towards appropriate support.
Domestic abuse remains one of the most commonly reported crimes in Wiltshire, and charities such as SWA play a key role in supporting victims while working to prevent abuse from happening in the first place.
Following the visit, Dr Goodwin praised the organisation’s work and highlighted the importance of supporting local charities tackling complex social issues.
He said: “Finding out more about the extent of domestic abuse in the area was eye-opening.
“The work SWA does in and around Swindon is so important in one day achieving their goal of a society free from domestic abuse.
“I am very excited to host the annual High Sheriff’s Charity Concert to raise money to help SWA continue in its work with women, men and families in the area and make a difference to so many lives, now and in the future.”
He added that the event would offer residents the chance to enjoy an evening of music while helping a local cause.
The concert programme will feature performances from young singers from the JTP Trust Youth Choir, who will perform an extract from their original youth opera, Brunel, the Little Man in The Tall Hat.
Also appearing will be Ten in a Bar, a well-known local vocal group recognised for its diverse repertoire, which ranges from contemporary choral works to popular modern classics.
Organisers hope the evening will attract music lovers from across Swindon while raising vital funds to help SWA continue its work supporting those affected by domestic abuse.
As well as providing specialist support services, the charity works to increase awareness, educate communities and help break cycles of abuse through prevention and early intervention.
Tickets for the concert are priced at £10, with an additional reception package available for those wishing to support the charity further.
Anyone seeking advice or support relating to domestic abuse can contact Swindon’s domestic abuse helpline on 01793 610610.
