Bank a gift for domestic abuse victims this Christmas

Yesterday saw the launch of the annual Christmas appeal at Natwest on Commercial Road.

Previous appeals during the festive season have been well supported by the bank's customers and they hope that this year will be no different.

Jane Stanley, associate personal banker at Natwest, said: "We are looking for people to donate brand new, unwrapped gifts suitable for women aged between 18 and 65.

"We've worked with Swindon Women's Aid in the past for events like our Easter appeal and out toy appeal last Christmas.

"Over time we've got to know them and come to understand what a great job they do for our community - it's a cause that we've become quite passionate about.

"We contacted them this year and asked if they would like our support this Christmas and they said yes.

"We asked what they needed and what would be of the most benefit - they explained that while toys were wonderful it would be a great opportunity, this time, to support the women and we were pleased to be able to do that."

Swindon Women's Aid offers support to women who have been the victims of domestic abuse, both physical and emotional. As well as running a refuge supporting over 20 women they also care for hundreds in the wider community.

Abby Ayre, office manager at Swindon Women's Aid, said: "Natwest has continuously supported us with the work we do.

"It is true that we get a lot of focus on children, which is great, but a lot of the time we don't get gifts donated for mums.

"Christmas is a really stressful time and it's true that mums can neglect themselves.

"When they get into the refuge their priority is their children and focusing on rebuilding that relationship - it's quite difficult for them to make time for themselves let alone think about planning for Christmas."

The appeal will run until the end of November, anyone wishing to donate gifts just has to pop into the Commercial Road branch and drop them off.