Swindon Booth House calls local businesses to partner in 2026 to tackle homelessness

Swindon Booth House, The Salvation Army’s life-changing hostel in Swindon for people experiencing homelessness, is issuing a heartfelt call to local businesses to become community partners in 2026. Following a successful Christmas appeal on social media, the hostel is now seeking formal partnerships to deepen its impact and provide crucial, beyond-basic support for Swindon’s most vulnerable residents. 

Last year alone, lBooth House supported 91 people into permanent housing and created 394 opportunities for residents to engage in social enterprises and skills development. From football tournaments and cooking clubs to work experience in catering and bike repair at ‘Recycles’, the hostel provides a 24/7, 365-day-a-year safe haven where individuals can rebuild their lives with dignity.

Chloe Kirwan, Programme Manager at Swindon Booth House said, “Support from local businesses allows Booth House to turn practical help into lasting change, creating opportunities, dignity and independence for those who need it most. Businesses will become part of a shared commitment to community wellbeing, sustainability and real visible impact."

The call for partners comes as Booth House strives to fund more meaningful, direct support that transforms the resident experience. This includes funding day trips to museums and beaches, providing laptops for job and housing applications, and supplying welcome care packages for those arriving straight from the streets. 

How businesses can get involved 

Businesses are invited to choose Booth House as their ‘Charity of the Year’ or support through one-off initiatives. Partnerships are flexible and can include: 

*  Corporate Volunteering Days: Teams can refresh hostel gardens, paint communal areas, or assist at the ‘Recycles’ social enterprise. 

*  Matched Fundraising & Donation Drives: The hostel’s needs change seasonally, from sleeping bags and socks in winter to sun cream and water bottles in summer, and specific food items for holiday celebrations. 

* Educational Engagement: Salvation Army staff can visit workplaces to discuss local homelessness and Booth House’s vital work. 

Benefits for partners include unique team-building opportunities, enhanced Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) profiles, demonstrable local commitment, and boosted staff morale. Chloe said, “We are grateful for the past support of local employers like Zurich, Nationwide, and GWaste. This new drive aims to build on that strong foundation. Whether a business can commit for a year or a day, every contribution makes a tangible difference right here in Swindon.” 

There is no deadline to express interest; the hostel welcomes enquiries year-round. Businesses keen to learn more or discuss partnership opportunities are encouraged to contact Programme Manager Chloe Kirwan directly at chloe.kirwan@salvationarmy.org.uk or 01793 401830. 

Booth House, on 1 Spring Close in Swindon, supports adults with Swindon connections who face homelessness often due to addiction, mental health challenges, or financial hardship, offering structured pathways to long-term housing. The sensory room is the latest innovation in its holistic recovery model.   

The 50-bed Lifehouse provides 24-hour direct access accommodation and resettlement support for single men and women over 18. Residents receive practical support, including help with life skills, access to healthcare, and addiction recovery programs, in a safe and structured environment.  

The centre also offers employment guidance, budgeting advice, and emotional support, empowering individuals to rebuild their lives. Practical examples include work experience through social enterprises like The Sandwich People, which trains residents in food safety and customer service, and Recycles, a bike shop teaching mechanics. To learn more about Swindon Booth House and their programmes visit their website: Booth House Swindon Lifehouse | The Salvation Army.