Seventy-five adults with learning difficulties and mental health problems have been using their skills to help with the donation efforts for Ukraine.

Some services users supported by charity Phoenix Enterprises have been suffering from panic attacks because of the news surrounding Russia's invasion of Ukraine. A few are worried about nuclear attacks on Swindon. 

But now they've found a way to channel their concerns into positive action by  sorting and packaging doantions for Ukraine in their warehouse on Elgin Industrial Estate.

Collections of emergency aid supplies for Ukraine popped up around Swindon earlier this week including at the Polish Community Centre. These points quickly became overwhelmed with donations and so Phoenix Enterprises offered up its services. 

Commercial manager Karen Hyde came up with the idea. She said: "We've got a massive warehouse and the space. We have service users who pack normally. 

"Our doors are open for as long as they need to stay so. As soon as we were aware of what was happening in Ukraine it was second nature to jump in and provide the service we’re really good at."

Chloe Jenkins, who has been leading the sorting part of the operation, said: "I was one of those people that got scared that something could happen. 

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"Where I’ve had bad experiences in life, I wanted to help and give back so that people know we genuinely care even though I’ll probably never meet them. 

"It's giving people in Ukraine hope that their children and families have support from everywhere in the world."

"I've dressed up in a superwoman cape to send a message to other service users to let them know we can do this."

Support workers have been talking openly to the service users who are anxious about the war. Helping with the collections is a way they know they can use their skills to make a difference. 

People drop off donations at the cages near the front of the warehouse and then the charity's members sort and package the items.

"We all hope we can shut our doors but at the moment it’s a warzone in Ukraine and I cannot imagine what it’s like to be there," added the charity's trustee and service user liaison Mike Bowden.

"It's chilling that we are collecting bandages and tourniquets as well as nappies and sanitary products.

"This is the ghastly reality in Europe in 2022 and shows the whole breadth of humankind in dire straits." 

"Imagine if there was a Phoenix in Ukraine. It’s one thing telling people that they’re going to be OK here. How would you put that message across in Kyiv? I shake with concern, anger and fear for people there.

"It’s so impressive to see people who have learning difficulty challenges operating as a cohesive energised team and doing something for people who are suffering.

"We just want to make a difference. We’re not going to be able to fight but we want to use our skills as a gesture to help people."

The warehouse is open for donations Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm at Elgin Industrial Estate on Athena Avenue.