Justin Celebrates The Overwhelming Generosity Of Swindon Residents For Christmas Appeal

North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson is celebrating an overwhelming response to his Christmas Appeal, which saw people donate gifts to people who are experiencing loneliness this Christmas.

In November, Justin asked local residents to donate gifts to elderly people in order to give some festive cheer to those who find themselves on their own this Christmas – and Justin’s community office was inundated with generous residents bringing an array of presents.

Over the course of the past month, around 78 gifts were donated to Justin’s office. These have today been collected by the Health and Communities Team at Swindon Borough Council, who have identified local people who are at risk of loneliness, and will deliver the presents to them.

The team at SBC have liaised with the voluntary and community sector, including Swindon Mind and Stroke Coordinators, as well as the Adult Social Care and Housing team, to ensure that the gifts go to people who will be on their own at Christmas.

The appeal is Justin’s second successful annual initiative following last year’s donation of gifts to social services which were given to children who found themselves in care over Christmas.

Justin Tomlinson MP said: “Christmas for many of us is a time for spending time with our loved ones, enjoying the festive season and reflecting on all we have to be grateful for. However, it is important to reflect on those who are less fortunate than ourselves at this time, and as we embrace good tidings it is important to keep them in mind. The generosity of people across North Swindon never ceases to amaze me and I would like to say a huge thank you to all of those people who kindly dropped by my office to donate gifts. Their small kind act will really make a difference to somebody’s Christmas day.”

Kati Wood, the Health and Communities Manager at Swindon Borough Council, has today collected the gifts and will be distributing them throughout this week. She commented, “Isolation and loneliness is really harmful to people’s health so I am glad this effort is helping to bring a bit of joy at this time of year. If people who are concerned about loneliness and want to help reduce it locally, they can volunteer their time with Swindon Circles who are always on the lookout for volunteers who can help elderly people who would appreciate a bit of company. Please do contact the Live Well hub on 01793 465 513.”