The Swindon Family Contact Centre says it is in desperate need of support to ensure it can continue operating for vulnerable children and parents.
The centre offers a neutral and secure setting where children can spend time with a parent they do not live with. Sessions take place twice a month on Saturdays and are supervised by trained volunteers.
One parent brings their child to the venue before leaving, allowing the other parent to focus on rebuilding their relationship in a calm and structured environment. However, the service is entirely dependent on volunteers to run.
Organisers say that without enough people to oversee sessions, families could lose access to one of the few safe contact options available locally. During a recent session, six families were supported at the centre.
Children and parents spent time together indoors using toys and activities, and also outside in the garden.
For some families, the meeting followed months without contact. Volunteers are responsible for supervising sessions and helping to create a welcoming atmosphere.
Those involved describe the role as rewarding, particularly when witnessing emotional reunions between parents and children who have not seen each other for long periods. Maintaining contact after a relationship breakdown can be complex.
For the resident parent, trust and safety are key concerns, while for the other parent, opportunities to spend meaningful time together may be limited. The centre charges a small fee to cover essential costs such as training, venue hire and equipment.
Its continued operation, however, relies heavily on community support. Anyone interested in volunteering is encouraged to come forward.
Further details about the service can be found through the National Association of Child Contact Centres, which supports centres across the country or interested people can contact [email protected] or visit their website.
