YOUNG people at the Swindon Foyer are joining forces to stage a fundraising event in aid of charity.

The Foyer in Bath Road accommodates young people aged between 18 and 24, providing them with professional support as they prepare for education, employment and independent living.

Five young residents formed a group to organise the event after attending a Discovery Zone project run by C-Change Empowerment, which helps young people to develop a positive attitude and find opportunities to contribute to the community. The empowerment project at the Foyer is funded by the Wiltshire Police and Crime Commissioner.

Foyer residents voted for the Sophie Lancaster Foundation to be the beneficiary of proceeds. The organisation was set up in 2007 after the Lancashire teenager and her boyfriend were attacked by a gang who took issue with their appearance. The case was referred to as a hate crime and the charity was set up by Sophie’s mother to challenge the bigotry that fuels such attacks.

The fundraising event will be held at the Core Juice Bar on Saturday from 5pm to 7pm. The programme will feature music, dance and rap performances by young people resident at the Foyer and from Radnor Lodge, and supported by local musician Nick Weaver. Young people have also created arts and crafts which will be sold on the evening.

For further information, contact Fidelma Meehan at C-Change Empowerment on 07970 868364 or call Emma Derkatsch at the Foyer on 01793 612622.