SHOUT ABOUT SWINDON: The support group providing relief to the community

"I started the group because my mum has fibromyalgia," said Kerrie Barrett, chairwoman and founder of the Chronic Pain Awareness Group.

"A lot of people who suffer become quite isolated because it can be difficult to do things.

"So I decided I would create a group for people to socialise and get some support."

The free drop-in group meets every Friday between 10am-12pm at Pinetrees Community Centre and provides support and companionship for chronic pain sufferers.

Since its beginnings four and a half years ago the group has gone from strength to strength.

"At first I thought it would just be a coffee morning, and we had two or three people each week.

"Now we have about 20-25 people coming along sometimes," added Kerrie.

The group receive referrals from the Great Western Hospital Pain Management Services as well as local doctors surgeries.

"When we first started we were just focused on chronic pain, but a lot of people also suffer from mental health problems as a result and we can provide support for that too. Our motto is don’t suffer alone," said Kerrie.

As well as the weekly meetings, the group have an active Facebook group and host monthly gatherings for guest speakers or to talk through specific issues or incidents experienced by members.

"Unfortunately some people are very unkind. The problem with chronic pain is that it is invisible, and people think if they can't see it they think you're lying," said Kerrie.

Future plans include a trip to Cirencester Christmas Market as well as the seaside.

"A lot of people can't get out much so trips like this mean so much to them," added Kerrie.

Kerrie continued: "It’s really important to have a group like this because there are a lot of people suffering in silence.

"We're not just a local group, we're open to everyone. You may turn up feeling sad and lonely but I guarantee you will leave with a smile and feeling like you’re made a friend," she added.