Swindon will soon be alive with the sound of music as the town’s favourite all-female big band, the Swing Birds, take centre stage at Christ Church, Old Town. This special concert, set for Saturday, 1st June, aims to raise crucial funds for the Swindon Domestic Abuse Support Service (SDASS).
This annual charity event, hosted by The High Sheriff of Wiltshire on behalf of Rotary Swindon Cares, the fundraising arm of the Rotary Club of Swindon, is a highlight in the group’s calendar. This year, High Sheriff Dr Olivia Chapple is putting women in the spotlight, enlisting the vibrant 16-piece Swing Birds to perform. The goal: to raise money and awareness for SDASS, which supports women, men, and children experiencing domestic abuse.
Nicky Alberry, Chair of SDASS and Rotary member responsible for organising the concert, shared her excitement: “We’re delighted that the Swing Birds will be taking centre stage to help us raise much-needed funds and awareness of the ongoing issue of domestic abuse – as well as what to do if you, or someone you know, is currently experiencing this.”
Last year’s concert was a great success, raising over £4,500 for SDASS. These funds helped support 1 in 5 people in Swindon experiencing domestic abuse through a range of community support services, a dedicated refuge, and a 24/7 telephone advice line.
The Swing Birds promise an evening of musical delight, from classic swing to contemporary hits, ensuring an entertaining and meaningful night. Tickets for the concert are £20, which includes a reception afterwards, or £10 for the concert only. Tickets can be purchased online at TicketSource, or by emailing rotarynicky@nickyalberry.co.uk, or contacting the Christ Church Parish office.
For those in need of advice related to domestic abuse, SDASS offers a confidential 24/7 helpline at 01793 610610, always answered by a trained advisor.
About Swindon Domestic Abuse Support Service (SDASS)
SDASS is a free, confidential service supporting all victims of domestic violence in Swindon and the surrounding area. Founded in 1974 as Swindon Women’s Aid, SDASS operates a secure refuge with 22 individual flats for lone females or mothers with children. In the community, SDASS has Independent Domestic Violence Advisors (IDVAs) working in various locations, including hospitals and health centres.
The service includes a specialist team for children and young people, providing support both in the refuge and in the community. SDASS also runs training programmes to educate victims about their situation and teach young people about healthy relationships. The new prevention team advises those concerned about their behaviour and its impact on their relationships.
SDASS’s fundraising shop in the Parade, Swindon, is open six days a week, staffed entirely by volunteers, with quality donations always welcome. The helpline, 01793 610610, is available 24/7, 365 days a year, providing round-the-clock support.
