Local Charities

Annual Swimathon

Funds raised by our annual Swimathon are divided between four local charities each year. Charities can apply to be considered for support by contacting us through the Contact Us form.

Those benefitting from the proceeds of the 2012 Swimathon: are St Margaret’s Somerset Hospice, Citizens Advice Bureau, SURE (Somerset Unit for Radiotherapy Equipment) and SANDS (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death).

Taunton Woman’s Refuge

The organisation Chapter 1 manages the provision of safe temporary accommodation in the Women’s Refuge and support to women fleeing abusive relationships so that they can recover from the traumas of the past and to enable them to take control of their lives and make choices about their future.  Chapter 1 recently took over the running of the Women’s Refuge from the charity Taunton Women’s Aid who have managed the Refuge since its inception.

Jean Hole, Past President of SI Taunton, founder member and Trustee of the Taunton Women’s Refuge, wrote a book about the Refuge to celebrate its 30th anniversary in 2007.  Pictured with Jean (centre) are fellow Soroptimists Sheila Naylor (left), past Trustee of the Refuge and Anne Kearle (right), current Trustee.