An organisation set up by a local woman after the murder of her sister to help domestic abuse victims and others who experience trauma has received further funding. 

Swindon Sisters Alliance was formed by Emma King after she lost her sister Julie in 2005 to domestic violence.  

With the help of a small team and board members, the group supports the people of Swindon and surrounding areas who have been impacted by domestic abuse, suicide, murder and other trauma by signposting and creating awareness to support parents, children and extended family members.  

They offer volunteering and learning skills within their shops to create friendships and the opportunity to be around others with lived experiences, as well as arranging day trips and holidays to Julie’s Haven, a six-birth Holiday home in Brean, Somerset to enable individuals and families time away from their home to rebuild bonds and create positive memories. 

The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) is helping to fund community groups that support victims of domestic abuse, suicide, homicide and coercive controlling behaviour, and has given the not-for-profit organisation £5,000. 

Emma King, founder and managing director of Swindon Sister’s Alliance said: “As CEO it is a privilege and honour to be awarded £5000 from our PCC Community Action Fund.

"The fund has allowed us to continue supporting our Swindon community in multiple ways, including delivering services at the grassroots level ensuring we do all we can alongside already established organisations delivering support targeting VAWG and helping victims and their families on their path to recovery.  

“My role is rewarding and is a privilege to be able to fund our services free to all and help in therapeutic ways such as Julie’s Haven holidays and trips. It’s important to bring families together to enjoy happier times with their supportive network in times of hardship and their own unique and individual journeys.  

“We exist because of the kindness of our community who all help us in many ways. We hope Swidon Sisters Alliance continues way into the future and without our community support we wouldn’t be able to deliver our projects and help victims.” 

Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson said: “Organisations like Swindon Sister’s Alliance do incredible work within communities to provide much-needed support, guidance and a first-hand understanding to victims of domestic abuse and coercive and controlling behaviour, and can provide a safe space in which they can help them take the necessary steps to get back to safety."