SUPPORT for victims of domestic abuse and people with alcohol or drug dependencies will be the focus of this year’s fundraising efforts by local charitable organisation Swindon Cares.

Swindon Women’s Aid and the Nelson Trust are the chosen charities for the latest two-year appeal, which is supported by the Adver.

Representatives from organisations in the town such as Zurich, Arkell’s and Rotary Club of Swindon will officially launch the latest two-year campaign at the Tawny Owl pub on April 21.

The incoming high sheriff of Wiltshire Lady Marland will be in attendance along with Swindon Cares chairman James Arkell.

Vice chairman of Swindon Cares Bill Fishlock, 72, said he was proud to be starting the latest fundraising campaign next month.

The retired accountant, who lives in Windsor Road, said:

“It’s why we do it. When we think of how much we have raised it really does make you smile to know that we have made a difference to the charities.

“We know the good work that the Nelson Trust and Swindon Women’s Aid do on a daily basis and we are hoping to raise as much money as possible for them in the two years.

“Each charity we pick, we want to raise their profile in the community and shine a light on what they are doing.

“The end goal as well as fundraising is to make others in Swindon aware of the charities and hopefully encourage them to support them too.

“The two we have chosen are very worthy causes

“It doesn’t feel like we have been doing this for 14 years.

“Each time it feels exciting and we resolve to do the best job we can. We are very grateful to everyone in Swindon who has supported us so tirelessly and we hope they will get behind us once again.

In 14 years of fundraising the charitable network has raised an incredible £249,373.

Every two years, Swindon Cares nominates two different charities it aims to raise money for.

Charities that have benefited include Swindon Down’s Syndrome Group, Swindon Carer’s Centre. Swindon Alzheimer’s Society, and Prospect Hospice.

The last two-year campaign raised £33,000 which was split between DASH (Discovering Autistic Spectrum Happiness) and Hop, Skip and Jump Swindon which provides respite care for children with disabilities.

Notable fundraising events during the campaign include a golf day at Ogbourne Downs, a quiz night at the DeVere and the High Sheriff’s concert due to be held at Christ Church in June.

For more information visit swindoncares.co.uk