Author: David Simmons

Dressability is looking for a Community Engagement Assistant to join our team.

This new part-time role will help us build stronger links across Swindon and the surrounding area, raising awareness of our services and helping more people access the support we provide.

We know that many people who could benefit from clothing adaptations simply do not know we exist. This role is about changing that. The Community Engagement Assistant will focus on building relationships with local groups, health services and community organisations, representing Dressability at events and helping grow referrals within the community.

We are looking for someone friendly, confident and organised, with experience in community engagement or partnership working and good knowledge of the local area. An understanding of disability issues is important. A full driving licence and access to a vehicle are required.

This is an opportunity to be part of a small, supportive team and contribute to work that has a direct impact on people’s confidence, comfort and independence.

Full details and how to apply can be found here:
https://www.charityjob.co.uk/jobs/dressability/community-engagement-assistant/1058489?tsId=1

For any questions about the role, please contact Sharon Tombs at sharontombs@dressability.org.uk

Our trustee and vice chair, Nicky, recently visited SHAP, the Swindon Humanitarian Aid Partnership, based on Station Industrial Estate in Swindon, and came away genuinely inspired by the work they are doing.

At Dressability, we really believe in working alongside other organisations in our community so that, together, we can deliver more support to those who need it most. This is a great example of that in action.

Dressability has provided the debranded coats you can see in the photos. While Nicky was there, the team were already packing these ready for shipment to Ukraine, with more coats to follow.

SHAP is a voluntary run organisation, not a charity, supporting people in Ukraine and vulnerable Ukrainian refugees in Swindon and the surrounding areas. With support from partner organisations, they have delivered over 2,300 tonnes of aid, much of it to eastern Ukraine where the need is greatest.

They have also helped deliver over 2,100 hospital beds, mattresses, medical aid, wheelchairs and other vital equipment, supported by the NHS and care organisations. Aid is sent every 6 to 8 weeks, with local companies supplying vans to make this possible.

One of the most moving things Nicky saw was their comfort candle project. Volunteers recycle tins, make wicks from card, and melt down donated candles to create simple sources of heat, light and a way to warm food using just two bricks. A simple idea with a powerful impact.

Thank you to Carol, Volodymyr, Natalia and Viktoriya, pictured here, just a few of the 100 volunteers who give their time. Nicky was made so welcome, with coffee, Ukrainian nuts and local chocolates, while chatting with Carol, vice chair, and Natalia who does much of the networking with contacts in Ukraine.

An incredible organisation and a great reminder of how much stronger we are when we work together. If you are part of a group or organisation that feels there could be mutual benefit in partnering with Dressability, we would love to hear from you.

#dressability #swindon #community #partnership #volunteers #workingtogether #support

Dressability are looking for professional trustees to join their team.

Based in Swindon, the charity offers bespoke clothing adaptations and alterations for the over 65’s, children and adults with disabilities, those with dexterity issues and other specific needs.

We are short of trustees and need to recruit, particularly those with business and/or finance experience. Based in Westmead, West Swindon, the Trustees generally meet once a month, with the time commitment being approx. two hours per month.

The charity benefits both the local community and has national reach via it’s postal service. By offering it’s services, Dressability aims to boost confidence, independence and self esteem by giving those in need the opportunity to wear the clothes they want to.

Anyone interested can get in touch by emailing sharontombs@dressability.org.uk

We are delighted to welcome Tia, our new Service Delivery Manager, as part of the Dressability Team for 2026.

Tia will play an important role in supporting our day to day operations, working closely with our team and volunteers, and helping ensure our clients continue to receive the practical, thoughtful support we are known for.

If you would like to access our service, Tia will be on hand to help guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.

To get in touch, please email mail@dressability.org.uk or call 01793 512878.

Welcome to Dressability, Tia. We are so excited to have you on board!