Kells Connections A periodic news update from The Kelly FoundationJanuary 2026 |
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| A word from the Chairman…… |
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| Like most of you, we have had a very busy Christmas period. From Carol Services in supermarkets, to thank you events for our amazing team of volunteers, to Christchurch Concerts in Christmas week, to a full blown Christmas Day free meal for those finding themselves alone at this time of the year, I can sincerely say we’ve never stopped. After Christmas, we did have a short break, but now we’re back and determined to continue the work, to give those who are suffering from anxiety, depression and other disabling illnesses, some hope that someone really does care. I like to think that’s what makes us different. We don’t do what we do because it’s a job., it’s not a 9 to 5 role and because of the way we are as a charity, we find it hard to switch off … again, I like to think that’s what perhaps sets us apart? We are intending to try to focus more on long term financial sustainability. We appointed a Funding Manager, Andy James, in November last year and we are very keen to get more regular donors to join into our “Friends of Kelly” opportunity, and if you continue to scroll this newsletter, you will see how you may be able to help. Thanks again for all your support. We couldn’t do anything at all without this and those of you who actively help us, from throwing coinage in a green box, coming along to our amazing Christchurch Tribute Concerts or calling in at Kells Kitchen at Pinetrees for a cappuccino. We truly do value each and every one of you. Thank you John Stooke Chair |
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| Can we offer a huge welcome to Jenny Adamson MBACP, who has been appointed as our Counselling Coordination Manager. Jenny writes, “I’m passionate about supporting people with their mental health and I have always wanted a career in helping people. I wish mental health was seen to be as important as our physical health and that people didn't feel or see a stigma attached. I hope for there to be more kindness and empathy in the world and I hope that when people walk through our doors at the charity they feel just that. I love being part of the Kelly team and hold dear all of their core beliefs and values, these mirror my own. It's humbling to be a part of something that makes a real difference and is often a lifeline in the community. Growing up in Swindon and in the specific area in which we are based, I know how important all of our work is to everyone. I am a qualified counsellor with extensive experience in Adults and Children and Young people. I hold additional qualifications in suicide, self-harm and social science. I also have a keen interest in chronic illness and the effect that this can have on people both physically and mentally”. We were very sorry that Hayley Fear, one of our popular Kells Kitchen Managers, has decided to pursue other challenges and worked her last shift at Christmas. Hayley had been with us from the early days and was efficient, committed and hard working. We, and especially our lovely customers in the café, will miss her presence, her optimism and her warmth and empathy. We wish her good luck in whatever she does next, and do hope she will ‘not be a stranger’ in the future! We will be announcing her replacement next month, meanwhile Siobhan will keep a watching brief over 5 days in the interim. |
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| | Eastbury Way Christmas Lights “WOW” was how Head of the Kelly Foundation, Emma Rees reacted when all the donations in respect of the Eastbury Way Christmas lights show, had been totted up checked and banked. And this is not actually all because the donations page is still open and the cheque total doesn’t include some gift aid yet to be claimed. It could easily exceed £7500! Now in their fourth year, the Eastbury Way team, (they don’t like to be called a committee because they’re just good neighbours trying to bring cheer to Christmas for the children and help local charities at the same time) have already raised many thousands for local charities and this year was no exception. |
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| Preparations and build for the event begin at Halloween, four weeks before the launch. Each year a number of charities are short listed and these are put to a public vote during September and October and this year of the Kelly Foundation, the local mental health support charity based in Pinetrees, emerged as the overall winner. Charity COO Emma Rees said “These donations will make a huge difference to the work we are able to do. Because we don’t receive any statutory help, in order to continue or advance our work, we rely on the kindness and generosity of local people, and as you can see, they have certainly stepped forward this year!” The display is getting bigger and bigger and this year the street was further lit up by the attendance of Wiltshire Car Scene, a team of motor enthusiasts, who decorate their vehicles with LED lights and a Christmas music speaker rig. In addition, there were different attractions on different days stilt walkers, fantasy figures, huge pneumatic characters, a hot dog and burger van, Father Christmas of course, and other attractions, all added to the spectacle. Swindon Mayor Fay Howard said “What a spectacular sight it was to visit the Christmas lights on Eastbury Way (now known as Santa Claus Street I think!) The residents have assembled a magnificent display and it was a joy to see so many families of all ages out enjoying the decorations and the brilliant animations” As the team assembled for the cheque photo, Treen Duffin was clearly already planning next year as she arrived from town for the photograph, with her car stacked out with newly acquired discounted Christmas lights! Remarkably, because all of the lights are LED based it didn’t make a huge hole in the community electric bill, with around £8/£10 a month per house with all the lights on from dusk until midnight! “There were so many families with small children who attended and the looks of amazement and joy on their faces made it almost worthwhile on its own”, said Tim Barton. John Stooke, Chair of The Kelly Foundation said “I actually faced some logistical issues because whilst the majority of donations were made via telephone and credit card machines, a huge amount of cash was left as well. The weight of this required an industrial sack truck to move it into our town centre bank! Normally Metrobank have a limit on daily cash deposits, but I’m pleased to say they felt sorry for me and made a rare exception in this case (and even helped me count it!)” Summing up the event, the team are clearly already looking forward to next year, possibly becoming even bigger, but did say that for the purpose of children’s safety they were planning to see whether there could be periodic temporary road closures. “There were some potential safety issues with the number of small children visiting, the excitement, and passing vehicle drivers attention also being potentially distracted by the display” said James Spencer. The community thanked the estimated 10,000 people that visited over the four weeks, remarked on how rewarding it was to receive so many really lovely comments on their Facebook, and also expressed their admiration and thanks for the patience of their surrounding neighbours who coped admirably with a constant stream of car movements, parking up and leaving, right throughout the whole period, without complaint. |
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Gel Studios - Kelly Foundation wins the Vote Swindon Creative Design Studio, Gel, announced the return of their ‘Win a Creative Solution’ competition in September 2025. They were offering three bespoke creative solutions (worth £5,000 each) to charities and not-for-profit organisations across Wiltshire. As in previous years, they left it to the public vote, to decide who the three winners were to be. We were very pleased to make the short list and delighted to end up as a winner! We are likely to update and improve our website and client facing profile, making it more user friendly … and look forward to working with Gel in 2026. |
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| | Community Support in Action… Our Chief Operating Officer, Emma Rees, along with some of the team from Kells Kitchen, were delighted to be invited to the opening of the newly refurbished ‘Onroute Truckstops Swindon’ in the first week of January.
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| We had the pleasure of meeting David Hatherall, Aroara Blanchard, and Hayley Blanchard, who kindly presented us with a £100 donation raised through their Christmas Jumper Day fundraiser. A huge thank you to everyone at ‘Onroute Truckstops Swindon’ for your continued support. From all of us at The Kelly Foundation, we wish the truck stop every success following its splendid refurbishment. |
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Thank you to Michael Lloyd … Whilst we are going back to the end of October now, we couldn’t let this newsletter go to press without saying a huge thank you to the team at Tesco in Ocotel Way, who are a constant support and inspiration to the Charity! In particular this year, Michael Lloyd (with no running experience) entered the Swindon half marathon, and we were absolutely overwhelmed by the amount he raised. |
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| This incredible fundraising equates to 62 hours of support, meaning six people will now receive the much needed life changing therapy to help them on their recovery journey. Pictured are Store Manager John, Community Champion Heidi, next to Emma, Michael Lloyd, who pounded the Swindon streets to such success and of course our Head of Charity, Emma Rees. |
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Bikeathon You’ve heard the phrase “Up all night”. Well Haydon Wick Parish Council decided on a 24hr Bikeathon on Friday 21st November 1pm to Saturday 22nd November '25! Councillors pedalled in shifts, some for a whole 2 hours, others (those a bit more mature such as Cllr Richard Hailstone) worked away for somewhat shorter periods. The event was live streamed all through the night. Chair Vinay Manro said, “Whether you are watching online, stopping by to cheer them on in person, or donating to the cause, -- your support keeps the wheels turning and the mission alive!” “Every mile matters, every donation counts”. Pictured are Councillors Leigh and John Jackson, warming up for the challenge. |
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A Thai inspired culinary adventure Those of you who are Masterchef fans will know about Sam Kaeokon, a charming young man from Stratton, who was well up amongst the finalists of this year’s BBC cooking test. We called him when he got back to Swindon and asked him whether he would be prepared to work with the Kelly Foundation to deliver a very special and unique dining event, a five course Thai inspired banquet, which would be exclusive for 30 people only, and include entertainment by Mr Steve West, well-known Cabaret star from Bath. We have to say, Sam could not have done more for us. He went out and sourced all the ingredients and led a team of nine people on the night, to produce what was generally agreed, as one of the most stunning dining experiences, those lucky enough to attend could ever recall. Attendees brought their own wine because we didn’t have a licence and the evening ended with a ‘Sinatra inspired set’ which got everybody up which insured nobody ended up in their seats! Afterwards, Sam told us he felt it was more pressure than the whole of the Masterchef competition, but what an experience for all of us. I’ve listed the menu below just in case you don’t feel fed up enough already that you couldn’t get tickets! The sauces were to die for! Naam Tok Ribeye & Thai Salmon Ceviche Canapes Asian Consommé with Mushroom Dumplings Khao Soi Chicken Thigh with Crispy Noodles Lime and Lemon Grass Sorbet Mango Sticky Rice - My Way |
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Elton John Rocks Christchurch! If you missed our Saturday Christmas Concert, you missed one of the best we have staged! In the first half, Melica, a MOBO backed vocalist and accomplished entertainer on the London scene, brought her own style of soulful and captivating music. Her Caribbean roots added warmth and rhythm to everything she did, Miss Independent, Stand by Me, etc, just stunning! In part 2, we were blown away by the ultimate celebration of a true musical megastar! The man himself may have retired from touring, but it doesn’t mean we had to say Goodbye to that Yellow Brick Road! Performing all the hits - Your Song, Bennie & The Jets, Saturday Night’s Alright (For Fighting), I Guess That’s Why They Call It the Blues and MANY more… the piano was pounded, and Christchurch was truly rocked! The tickets did not do quite as well as previous years? Cost of living? Wrong night? Elton's popularity? I have no idea but many who were there said the best night so far! |
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Supermarket carols at Christmas On a cold December evening, the Swindon Songbirds, a dedicated group of 19 ladies under the leadership of Musical Director Lucy Smith, assembled in the big ASDA at Orbital, to add a note of Christmas Cheer to those rushing to do their last-minute shopping. With Kelly Foundation supporters rattling buckets, we raised a remarkable £160 in just under an hour. Sincere thanks to the Songbirds and especially to all those who not just stopped to listen, but also donated to the charity. |
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For those alone at Christmas This was our first sit-down Christmas lunch, and we were delighted to welcome around 80 guests and volunteers to Pinetrees for a free festive meal. The idea grew from last year, when Emma delivered a Christmas meal to a man left all alone, on what, for most, is a day full of family fun and merriment. The team worked hard all week setting up, and the Community Centre kindly donated the space. Additional financial support was provided by Zürich, Aldi, the Strawberry Thief and Sovereign Housing Group. What a truly magical day. We hope the photographs capture just some of the fun, laughter and togetherness shared, which was made even more special by a visit from Santa, straight from the North Pole, who brought smiles, cheer, gifts and festive magic to everyone in the room. We were also honoured to welcome our special guest and good friend of the charity, Emma Doupé, who filled the centre with beautiful Christmas songs. Her voice created such a joyful atmosphere and added a truly heartfelt soundtrack to the already amazing day. Emma Doupé said, “The Kelly Foundation has done a lot for me over the years, and I just think what they do is really incredible. What better way to spend a holiday? You’re under such a sense of pressure to be together on holidays, and even know people don’t really want isolation. It’s a bit scary to go out and enjoy food with people you don’t know, but everyone there be delighted with their decision to come along”. To everyone who joined us, thank you for spending part of your Christmas with us. To our incredible volunteers and supporters, without your kindness, time and generosity, this would simply not have been possible. Emma Rees, who organised and managed the event and gave up her Christmas Day, said “I can see my family any time and have a Christmas lunch, but there are lots of people in our community that have nobody”. Christmas is about connection and community, and knowing you’re not alone … and this Christmas Day reminded us just how powerful that can be. It was very special, and thank you to all those who made it possible. We are thinking of making this an annual event and hope to expand the numbers as we turned people away this year. |
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Back by popular request Of all the shows we have staged in Christchurch, the one which people talk about the most is still Queen! Phil Copping as Freddie is a revelation, visually and musically, so close to the master. I won’t list all the hit music, all the inspirational songs we have grown up with, but they are all there. The great news is not only do we want them back, but they are keen to come back and reprise their fantastic show. This will be on April, on Saturday 25th at Christchurch and will go on general sale on Feb 1st. As Friends and supporters, if you want to book in early on pre-sale, then drop me an email at j.stooke@btinternet.com. It will certainly sell out. Don't miss it! |
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Community Mental Health Hub in North Swindon Those who know The Kelly Foundation are aware that it is our ambition to try to develop a ‘Mental Health Hub’ in North Swindon, where individuals who are contemplating ending their lives will be able to get immediate contact and support from people who are qualified to help in a serious, caring and compassionate way. Progress to date involved speaking and presenting to all of the local Parish Councils, Swindon Borough Council and Sovereign Housing Association, in order to put together a viable plan which could be taken to the National Lottery. Put simply, the plan was 40% of the funding to be raised locally and 60% raised via the National Lottery, which would last for a minimum of 3 years under this funding arrangement. There is no reason it could not continue on after that, if we can identify the financial resources, and that is our objective. At the point we were due to submit to the lottery, it seems they changed their criteria, which they do from time to time, and at the moment, inequality, disadvantage and young people, as well as heritage buildings, seem to be the key programmes they are involved in funding. The Chairman held a meeting with the Lottery on Thursday, and the Area Lottery Manager expressed some optimism that we may be able to find a suitable scheme which would/might fit our proposal. We need to investigate this further, and we will update our supporters further in due course. Thank you again for your patience. |
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Men's Social Club Statistics demonstrate that men between the ages of 30 and 55 are much greater risk of ending their lives as a result of anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions, than those in other age and gender groups. Also, they are much less likely to talk about it to professionals or even colleagues. We especially want to do something to address this in the near future, as we presently have 18 men on our waiting list for counselling and therapy. |
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| As an interim measure, and in the hope that we can offer both outreach and support, we are planning a men’s social club, a well-being group to meet in Kells Kitchen in Pinetrees, monthly on a Friday beginning on February 13th 2026. There will be mental health workers on hand, and we will be providing a hot meal and drink, and this will be essentially a non-judgmental, social opportunity to get men talking about how they feel. If, in the process, we can pick up aspects of their health we think we can do something about, either by direct intervention or by signposting with continuing support, then we will do exactly that. This is a group open to all men, and we really hope that you will take advantage of this opportunity. We are not quite sure how, but an early draft of the plan became public domain, indicating it would begin in January, and several men made the trip. We can’t apologise enough to those individuals and assure them that it will ideally be up and running on the 13th. |
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Paramount Interiors Get the Job Done! You may have noticed that before Christmas, our café at Pinetrees underwent a complete repaint. This was due to Paramount Interiors, in part, who provided the labour force completely free of charge and also Crown Decorating Centre at Elgin, who couldn’t do enough for us, in providing paint and materials, which again they donated to the charity! I think people felt it might be a little bright whilst the paint was going on, but I’m sure now everybody has got used to the quite distinctive look, which of course fits in with our branding colour, as Crown undertook a digital scanning match to ensure compatibility. Everybody now seems pleased with this fresh new look. We have to say that Paramount have been an incredible supporter of our charity, and their generosity and hard work have helped us create a modern, clean, welcoming space for everybody in the community. Their time, effort and kindness make a huge difference, not just in brightening up the café but also in the lives of those who volunteer there for those customers who visit us regularly. |
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Lunch Club Expands When Swindon Central North Parish Council took back control of Moredon Community Centre, they asked us whether we would be interested in running an outreach catered lunch each Tuesday. Tuesday, being a fairly quiet day at Pinetrees, we said yes … and we are pleased to say this is proving a huge success with 18 to 20 people each week enjoying not just a two course lunch for £5.95, but also the opportunity to mix and look forward to something different in their week, which some spend alone in their homes and don’t have the opportunity to get out and meet other people. |
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| If this is something that might interest you, we are very keen to increase the numbers. Siobhan tells us we can cope with up to 32 or so each week, so why not come along on a Tuesday and see if it’s something for you? Moredon Community Centre is on the corner in Central Moredon, opposite what used to be the Boundary House pub, and there is plenty of parking. Every Tuesday between 12 and 2 pm. See you there! |
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Thanks to our volunteers On December 19, we took the opportunity to say a big Christmas thank you to our amazing team of volunteers who run Kells Kitchen for us 5 1/2 days every week. Those of you who use the café know just what a delight these individuals are, and how committed they are to the overall success of both our charity and our therapeutic outreach café. With no expense spared, the Domino's man arrived with a bag full of pizza he could hardly lift! Whilst we missed out on Father Christmas, we ensured that everybody in the team went away with our congratulations, our thanks, and a small gesture of how much we value and enjoy their continued help and support. |
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It was mentioned in previous newsletters, that one of our main initiatives to provide long-term, sustainable funding to the Charity, is to increase the number of ‘Friends’ that make regular, small, monthly donations. If you can help in this, we would be absolutely delighted. You can see the small dispenser pictured. If there is an area where there is a good deal of footfall such as a pub, church or a café or any other public/community building you may have access to or influence over, we would love to put one of our dispensers out, in the hope that some people might take a leaflet and join us. Also of course, if it is not you, feel free to suggest to anyone you may know who might be in such a position to help. Do let me know j.stooke@btinternet.com or text (07836) 609369 and Thank You! |
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| Can you help us distribute our brochures? |
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| | Please let us know if you have premises where these could be displayed for the public and we will arrange a pack for you. Email info@4kelly.org with your contact details. Many thanks for your support. |
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| | Volunteers are important within our community and vital to our charity! We are looking for the following help and support: Volunteers who may like to work one day in our café, Kells Kitchen or even fill in for holiday cover. Lots of different roles, no experience needed. Qualified mental health support workers or therapists who may be able to spare us just one hour a week or a fortnight to help us with our waiting list and support individuals having a tough time, with nowhere to turn. Want to join our Fundraising Committee? We are currently pulling together a team of fundraisers to handle local events for us. This could be attending a fete, organising a cake bake, managing collection tins in the local community etc
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| | Copyright (C) 2026. The Kelly Foundation. Registered Charity No: 1200389. Registered Address: Pinetrees Centre, The Circle, Pinehurst, Swindon, SN2 1QR. All rights reserved.
EMAIL - info@4kelly.org
TELEPHONE - 01793 200710
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