Gloucester House receives Pride of Swindon Award for 65 years of service

For 65 years, a house on Highworth’s High Street has been a place where hope walks through the door, often for the first time in a long while. Recently, that legacy of compassion was celebrated as Gloucester House, run by The Salvation Army, received a Pride of Swindon team award. 

Hosted by Voluntary Action Swindon (VAS), Swindon Borough Council and local radio station Swindon 105.5, the Pride of Swindon Awards celebrate individuals and teams who have made a positive and lasting impact on people, communities and neighbourhoods across the Borough of Swindon. Gloucester House was recognised for its dedication to helping men overcome alcohol or drug dependency or behavioural issues.   

Since opening in 1960 to help men from across the UK seek a second chance in overcoming alcohol and drug dependency, Gloucester House has expanded to include a second halfway house, positively impacting thousands of lives. 

For staff and residents, the honour is a testament to the belief that everyone deserves a chance at sobriety. Maz Hyde, Programme Manager at Gloucester House, said the award validates the staff’s efforts and helps challenge societal stigma. 

Maz said, “This award is a brilliant achievement and recognises the work the staff have done over the last year. There is still some cultural stigma towards addiction, and recognition like this goes towards changing that perception. The staff work hard every day trying to fulfil The Salvation Army’s mission to change lives. Many of our team come in on their days off, take residents to their meetings and activities in their own time, enabling them to successfully complete the programme.” 

The evening included emotional contributions from former residents, friends of the centre, and family members, who spoke about the impact of its 12-step programme and supportive environment. One moving account came from the sister of a former resident, who shared how Gloucester House had made a transformative difference in her brother’s life. He now works in the probation service, helping others who are struggling. 

Another highlight was a conversation with a nurse who worked at Gloucester House as a newly qualified professional in the 1980s. She continues to support drug and alcohol services elsewhere, carrying the lessons of compassion learned at the centre throughout her career. 

Gloucester House paid tribute to the community that surrounds it, acknowledging the role played by the Friends of Gloucester House (FOGH), a group of trustees who have fundraised for the centre for many years. 

The centre was also nominated for the Big Highworth Community Awards in March, a reflection of its impact in the community. Gloucester House was one of three finalists and received a ‘Thank You’ award. 

A message of hope and a look to the future 

Gloucester House has offered a message of solidarity and commitment to those currently on their recovery journey.

Despite the celebration, Gloucester House acknowledges the challenges facing addiction rehabilitation services. Funding remains the biggest issue for rehabs nationally, and Maz highlighted that local funding is very limited, resulting in few referrals from the local area. The Choices Group, a collective advocating for the sector, recently attended Parliament to address this issue, and the team at Gloucester House is working on strategies to improve the situation. 

To learn more about Gloucester House and how to support their programmes, visit their website: Gloucester House | The Salvation Army.