TWO charities that help women at their most vulnerable moments in life have been chosen for two years of support by Swindon Cares.

The Nelson Trust, which runs a women’s centre in the town to help those who have experienced trauma related to substance abuse and Swindon Women’s Aid, which cares for women escaping violence in the home, were announced as beneficiaries at a launch event attended by High Sheriff of Wiltshire Lady Marland.

“I think Swindon Cares has selected two very worthwhile and relevant charities this year,” she told them.

She had worked in probation for the best part of 18 years and the needs catered for by both charities were at the forefront.

“The public really does need to know this work is going on in the community,” she added.

Olwen Kelly, Women’s Aid director said: “It is incredible. We’re really, really delighted to be chosen because it is a great opportunity, not only to highlight domestic violence and the services we are able to offer. It also enables a route of fundraising that we’ve not had before.”

She stressed money raised would go directly to helping woman and especially children.

The centre was set up by Jenni Manners 40 years ago. “We are probably now one of the largest refuges in the country. Last year we supported 82 families in our refuge accommodation, including 178 children,” said Olwen.

The organisation also helped 532 families in their own homes to end abusive relationships.

“For the children it is especially traumatic,” she explained. They may never be able to go back to their old school, Scouts or other clubs or even see friends because it was not safe.

One of the main tasks was to make life as normal for them as possible with things like trips to the cinema or swimming.

Melissa Atherton from the Nelson Trust said having the support of Swindon Cares was fantastic. The charity has two ISIS Centres, one in Swindon, that offer a one-stop shop for women caught up in the criminal justice system because of issues like drugs and substance abuse.

It also provides post-treatment housing to help people return to the community.

“We are addressing a number of complex needs and vulnerabilities that these women have. We focus on the needs of the individual and work to transform that person.”

She added that the charity had recently moved to larger offices because it wanted to be able to help more women.

Fundraising events planned for this year include the High Sheriff’s concert in June, a golf day and a quiz.

Visit swindoncares.co.uk for more information.