Bespoke service helps solve clothing problems for disabled

Dressability, which alters clothing for disabled people who have problems dressing and undressing, has moved to York House, in Edison Park, Hindle Way, after it was told to leave the former Even Swindon Primary School building, in Rodbourne, at the end of last year.

The charity is inviting everyone to come and have a look at its new base, which was found by a trustee, on April 26.

Sian Barrie, the manager and one of the charity’s founders, said: “It’s going to be an open session so that people can come and see where we are.

“It is an opportunity for people have a look at the adaptions we do and the garments we make. There will also be stories from our clients.

“Everybody is invited to come along so people can see what we are doing and look at our lovely new office. It is very modern. It is a lot bigger than the other place. It makes it easier to work.

"We are still in the process of raising awareness because unfortunately we couldn’t take our old telephone number with us.”

The charity was told to leave the former Even Swindon Primary School building after the main tenant announced it would be vacating the premises.

Dressability’s outreach service is available to all clients and provides information about specialist clothing for disabled people.

“We are like extreme dressmakers: we alter, adapt and make clothing for people with disabilities so it makes it easier for them to get their kit on and off,” said Sian.

“Most clothing is designed for upright mobile people who conform to standard sizes.

“Disabled people have different requirements because their garments may have to conceal medical accessories, minimise physical differences and accommodate limited mobility.

“They are further disadvantaged because often limited mobility means access to retail outlets is difficult, if not impossible, to achieve.”

The open dayruns from 2pm until 7.30pm. For more information phone 01793 512878 or email dressability@madasafish.com.