SELFLESS residents and charities that have made a significant impact on communities in Wiltshire have been recognised at an award ceremony organised by a leading local housing association.

Sovereign Housing Association’s first Community Awards took place at Newbury College last month.

The awards celebrate the positive impact that individuals, charities and community groups have had on Sovereign residents.

In total 19 prizes were handed out to recipient across Sovereign’s operating area, including one to Kim Swinden, who runs the Hometruths domestic abuse charity in Swindon.

Kim was nominated by a service user. She has helped many people affected by domesic abuse since the charity began in January 2011, alongside independent domestic violence advocate Mary Cosker.

The winners were given their awards by Sovereign’s chief executive Ann Santry and the chairman of Sovereign’s residents’ council, Simon Byng.

“As an organisation we aim to work with residents and local groups to build strong communities and change lives,” said Ann.

“It’s been fantastic, therefore, to recognise a host of people fevening who have made a real difference to our residents’ lives, their achievements were inspirational.”