Newbury Racecourse announces fundraising partnership with Swings & Smiles children’s disability charity in Thatcham

A Thatcham children’s disability charity has been announced as the official charity partner of Newbury Racecourse for the rest of this year.

Swings & Smiles, based in Lower Way, offers support for children aged up to 19 with a wide range of disabilities and special needs across Berkshire and beyond.

The charity will benefit from numerous fundraising activities undertaken by the racecourse throughout the rest of the year.

The Racecourse team started by assisting the centre with crucial maintenance including painting, jet washing and gardening yesterday (Friday).

And discussions are also underway for a dedicated family day in August, in which the charity will have a private space for children and their families to enjoy.

Speaking about the new partnership, CEO of Swings & Smiles Rhonda Nicklin said: “Their commitment to the local community is clear, and we’re grateful to be part of that.

“This support will help us continue providing vital services to families who are often overlooked. We’re really looking forward to working with them and seeing the impact we can make together.”

CEO of Newbury Racecourse Shaun Hinds added: “Walking around the space it is inspirational; you can really see the positive impact this organisation is having locally.

“It is inspiring to see how we can think of different ways to support the efforts of this incredible organisation and promote the value and importance of the work they are doing here.

The partnership commenced during the sixth Racing Together Community Week this week (May 5-11), British racing’s national week of employee volunteering.