1 John Street, Swindon, SN1 1RT. Tel 01793 538398 info@vas-swindon.org Charity No. 287732, Company No. 1604168
© 2009 Voluntary Action Swindon (Charitable company limited by guarantee).
Social Care Committee
What is the Social Care Committee?
Since the 1930's, following the establishment of The Swindon Council of Social Service, there has been a committee helping individuals in need. The Social Care Committee provides financial help to families through grants.
In the last 70 years we have helped thousands of people in urgent need of some of the basic essentials of life. We provide practical help, tactfully and sympathetically. Often we are able to help when other agencies have been unable to do so.
Where do our funds come from?
We have access to trust funds, plus donations from the public, industry and voluntary organisations such as Lions and Rotary Clubs.
What kind of help can we give?
Our main purpose is to help people who lack some of the necessities of life. We give grants to:
- Buy safety equipment for the home, e.g. stair gates or fireguards.
We do not normally provide grants for holidays or school outings, or for the clearing of debts, but we will consider every application on its merits.
Unfortunately, because funds are limited, we cannot grant large amounts, or provide continuing assistance
How do we give help?
We make grants which are administered through the referring agency, or paid directly to the supplier or utility concerned.
If we need to contact the individual, we do so in a professional and sensitive way.
How can you apply?
We welcome applications from representatives of statutory, voluntary and other agencies. All applications are treated in strict confidence.
The following conditions apply to the individuals for whom an application is made:
- They must be residents of the Borough of Swindon
- They must give their permission for the application to be made
- They must not be receiving or eligible to receive statutory benefit for the same purpose as the application.
We ask for all applications to be made on a standardised application form, which must be completed fully. As part of the application, we expect a full and frank statement of the individual’s income and expenditure, as well as a statement of the circumstances to explain the application. This information not only enables the committee to reach a fair and informed decision, but also to see whether other sources of help can be suggested.
You can obtain application forms from:
The Social Care Secretary
C/O Voluntary Action Swindon
1 John Street
Swindon SN1 1RT
Tel: (01793) 538398
