Accommodation Welfare Committee’s 57-year impact to continue through WSCF

We are privileged to be chosen as one of four local charities to continue the legacy of the remarkable Accommodation Welfare Committee, who are closing after nearly six decades of supporting vulnerable young people across Wiltshire and Swindon.

The Committee was founded in 1969 with the aim of preventing crime and supporting young women under 30 who were in need of care, protection and guidance due to challenging circumstances. Its purpose was to help individuals develop the confidence, resilience and life skills needed to thrive as members of their communities.

Over time, the organisation evolved to support young men as well as women, responding to changing needs across the county. Through grant-making, the Committee backed a wide range of charitable organisations working directly with vulnerable young people, enabling them to deliver practical support and create opportunities for positive change. Over 57 years grants from the Committee have played their part in the support of a wide range of charitable organisations working directly with vulnerable young people in Wiltshire, enabling them to deliver practical support and create opportunities for positive change.

Among the initiatives supported was a Swindon-based hostel for young women experiencing homelessness—reflecting the Committee’s enduring commitment to addressing local need and supporting those facing significant challenges.

As it prepares to close, the Accommodation Welfare Committee will distribute its remaining funds to four Wiltshire-based charities, all with the aim of continuing the objectives of the charity. As well as the Foundation, the Committee has also decided to donate their remaining funds to Rose Gale Trust, Youth Action Wiltshire and Salisbury Women’s Refuge. These final grants will ensure that its work continues to make a difference in the lives of local people for years to come.

The funding to the Foundation will be primarily distributed through our Community Grants Programme, and will be used to support community groups directly working with and for young people across Wiltshire and Swindon, enabling us to continue the Committee’s mission for years to come.

Anabel Loyd, Chair of the Accommodation Welfare Committee, said: “The Accommodation Welfare Committee was founded by my grandmother and formally established in 1969 with a simple but powerful aim; to support organisations that achieve meaningful impact with limited resources in Wiltshire, which has been home to my family for generations.

“While we are sad to be closing this chapter, we are delighted the donation of our remaining funds will support the beneficiaries of these four outstanding local charities and are confident these donations will be used thoughtfully and effectively, continuing in the spirit in which the Committee was established.”

Our Joint Chief Executive, Fiona Oliver, said: “It is a real privilege to help carry forward the legacy of the Accommodation Welfare Committee.

“For nearly 60 years, the Committee has supported vital work across Wiltshire and Swindon, enabling grassroots organisations to respond to local need. We are honoured to be entrusted with continuing that impact and ensuring these resources reach the communities where they are needed most.”