Page 18 - link magazine

Care at Christmas 17

Christmas is a time when we think of others. Over the next few pages we focus on the many different • Sanctuary
ways one can look out for neighbours or get involved with a caring organisation. In fact, now is a good
. Housing_
time to make a New Year's resolution and commit some time to help in 1999.

Carers have a place to turn to Christmas appeals Sheltered accommodation
Christmas can spell isolation for carers and those they care for. It may Homestart Swindon is putting to- for rent for people of
be difficult for carers to find the freedom, and sometimes the money, gether parcels for the children and
to shop for presents and Christmas treats. teenagers in families they work retirement age
Friends, neighbours and family "People who are caring for oth- with who would not otherwise re- For details, call
often make or renew contact dur- ers can feel very flat and aban- ceive much at Christmas. 01793 511333
ing the festive season. But after the doned at this time of the year," They need toys in good condi-
New Year revelries have passed, says Focus Carers and Self-Help tion and toiletries for teenagers. Fax: 01793 431067
things can become quite bleak. co-ordinator Gillian Barber. You can either drop items in at the Sanctuary Housing Association
Staff and volunteers at Focus, "As well Homestart office at 7 Milton Road Swindon Area Office
based at the Swindon Carers Cen- as an op- or ring Jan Aylward on 613886. 89/91 Cricklade Road
Gorse Hill, Swindon SN2 lAB
tre in Morley Street understand portunity
and are sensitive to both the re- to talk, we West Swindon Family & Com-
wards and the pressures of caring can provide munity Project is making a gen-
support, eral appeal for support for their
advocacy Christmas activities.
HOMEFRONT and infor- They will be organising both ONE2ONE
mation on family and under fives parties,
THE BATHING
everything events which have been sponsored CARE
SERVICE from ill- by local companies in the past.
nesses to Focus volunteer coor- There will be a raffle to raise Assisting you in your own home
For those whose everyday tasks
specialist dinator Maggie Smith funds, for which prizes are needed.
have become a little difficult, holidays The Project puts together Christ- + Personal care
we provide a unique and for carers." mas parcels for some 120 families. + Escorting
comprehensive bathing and A drop-in service run by Focus Donations of presents suitable + Housework
grooming service by qualified offers carers the chance to chat or for children aged from birth to 14 * Bathing
staff in your own home. let off steam. The sessions are open years will be gratefully received. + Shopping
from lOam to 1pm on Tuesdays If you can help with sponsor- * Gardening
Registered with Social Services
and Wednesdays. ship or a donation, contact the Inspected by Social Services
Homefront, 53b Perrys Lane These take place at the Swindon Project on 871303. Items can be Edna A Phelps
Wroughton Carers Centre, 25 Morley Street. dropped off at 15 Gainsborough 72 High Street, Wootton Basstett SN4 7AR
Tel: 01793 812716 To find out more, call 531133. Way, Freshbrook. Telephone: (01793) 850600

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