Rob Wilson MP, the Minister for Civil Society, has joined North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson on a visit to Swindon Circles at the Pinetrees Community Centre.
Swindon Circles is an important project which works within the local community to foster friendships and support older people across Swindon, in order to prevent isolation and loneliness.
Justin and the Minister were introduced to members of Swindon Circle as well as the volunteers who give up their time each week to spend time with elderly residents. Their activities often include taking them to doctors appointments and helping to carry out household chores, as well as building friendships.
The Swindon Circles initiative is a part of the ‘Cities of Service’ movement in which Swindon Borough Council is one of seven pioneering local authorities which are aiming to develop strategies of impact volunteering to address community needs.
The Minister was keen to see the volunteering scheme in action as the Cabinet Office has provided £30,000 to support the delivery of the Swindon programme over the next two years. Over that period, the Council will aim to identify local challenges that can be addressed by mobilising volunteers.
Justin Tomlinson MP said: “It was great to invite the Minister to come and see the Swindon Circles group as an example of Swindon’s success with the Cities of Service programme. We met a number of fantastic volunteers who are giving up their time each week to dedicate support and friendship to vulnerable and elderly people across Swindon. Everybody has elderly residents who often need extra care when it comes to their health and well-being. Having a programme like Swindon Circles which mobilises people to help look out for them is a great asset for out local community. I am glad that the Minister and the Cabinet Office are fully supportive of Swindon’s efforts to mobilise volunteers in order to support the most vulnerable in our society.”
For more information on Swindon Circles, please visit http://swindoncircles.org.uk
