Domestic abuse service rebrands as focus turns toward prevention
They felt like their old name wasn’t inclusive of everyone they support
Swindon Women’s Aid has rebranded to Society Without Abuse as they are looking to expand not only geographically but also their services.
They have been Swindon’s domestic abuse specialists for 50 years, helping victims recover and rebuild their lives.
The charity is now planning to shift their focus towards the prevention of domestic abuse while continuing to offer support to victims.
Nick Alberry, Chair of the SWA Board, said: “We felt it was the right time to re-assess what the charity has achieved over the last 50 years and where we see ourselves going, and it seemed natural to rename the charity to better reflect the future we’re working towards.
“We’re confident that we have the skills and experience to help many others and look forward to reaching far and wide as the ‘new’ SWA – Society Without Abuse.”
The charity’s specialist teams work with businesses and community groups to educate communities in Swindon about how to support those at risk and how to prevent abuse in the first place.
Going forward, they are planning to put increased emphasis on their whole family approach.
This will include supporting children who come from families with a history of domestic abuse or have been victims themselves.
They will also work with those family members who are displaying unhealthy behaviours which might lead them to become perpetrators.
Interim CEO Kate Rowland explained: “We’re all working for one goal, to one day see a society without abuse, and so our new name also serves to remind us, and those we work with and support, of the purpose that drives us.
Bringing an end to domestic abuse isn’t something we can do alone; it’s the responsibility of every one of us, whether friends, colleagues or neighbours. It’s more than picking up the pieces once the abuse has happened, but also working to educate, prevent and intervene.”
Looking forward, Society Without Abuse is also hoping to expand beyond Swindon’s borders on top of delivering their current support in town.
Dame Sarah Troughton, Patron of SWA, emphasised the importance of the charity’s work at the launch event of the ‘new’ SWA:
“SWA is a lovely family and this transition reflects the fantastic programmes and expertise they offer. Their support is really important to all sections of society: women, men and children.
Domestic abuse is a hugely sensitive, complex subject and if we can get to the root cause of it, we’re on the right road”.
Anyone in need of advice can call Swindon’s domestic abuse helpline on 01793 610610.