SWALLOW, the local charity supporting teenagers and adults with learning disabilities, have worked extremely hard to keep its members and staff safe and well during the crisis.

Although they had to cancel their non-essential activities to minimise risks for members and staff, their support workers continue their vital work in the community throughout this difficult time.

SWALLOW’s work has been, and remains, essential. They provide twenty-four-hour support at their supported housing and also providing outreach support to members who would otherwise be isolated. They also work hard to make sure that they keep in touch with people on the phone and by video conferencing to reduce anxiety and to ease loneliness.

Bev Craney said: “The coronavirus crisis has been an extremely confusing time for everyone, especially those that we support at SWALLOW and I would therefore like to take this opportunity to thank the amazing team and all our supporters.

“When the going gets tough, it is our wonderful team that gets us through it.”

The crisis has had a direct financial impact on the charity, with income severely reduced and expenditure increased for items such as PPE and additional staffing. To help to raise much needed funds and to follow the Government’s national campaign to encourage people to be as healthy as possible to reduce their risk of serious illness, including COVID-19, in September, SWALLOW launched a special weight loss challenge with the aim of raising funds, beating the virus and getting in shape, all at the same time.

The challenge, called £s for Lbs, runs until December, the perfect opportunity for those who want to lose some lockdown pounds and get in shape before Christmas. Participants will receive tips and guidance and encouragement along the way.

For every pound that people lose, we will ask friends and family to sponsor them and raise money for SWALLOW. The money raised from the challenge will be vital for the charity to continue to provide vital support.

If you would like more information about

SWALLOW, contact Nicky Tew on: nickyt@

swallowcharity.org or call: 01761 414034. Visit: www.swallowcharity.org or connect with us via our Facebook page: SWALLOWCharity