Founded in 2022 by Dawn and Ian Swettenham, the Swettenham Foundation is a charity dedicated to enhancing the health and wellbeing of local communities. With a long-standing history in the local pharmacy business, the Swettenham’s have built strong ties with the communities of Chester, East Wirral, and Llandudno. Their foundation is a way of giving back to these areas and promoting healthier, more connected lives.
Dawn and Ian are focussed on their objectives. “Day to day we see the management of health conditions through the prescribing of drugs. Many mental and physical illnesses can also be improved by changes to lifestyle and we are forming links with local GP surgeries and social prescribers to promote this aim. We are facilitating and encouraging access to nature, nutritious food, outdoor activities and connecting with others, all of which have a significant and positive effect on health”.
One of the key initiatives of the foundation is its work with community gardening groups and schools.
Gardening has proven benefits for mental health and social connection, therefore by encouraging hands-on learning about gardening and the impact of green spaces, the foundation will inspire people to support their own well-being.
To strengthen its community efforts, the foundation has recently welcomed Charlotte Houghton as its new Community Outreach Manager. Charlotte, formerly Chester’s Postcode Gardener, brings a wealth of experience in community engagement and a deep passion for nature.
“I’m thrilled to step into this exciting new role with The Swettenham Foundation. This position aligns perfectly with my passion for connecting people and nature. I’m excited to channel this passion into this new opportunity and helping others discover the beauty and benefits of nature.”
While the foundation’s efforts extend to areas where Swettenham Chemists operate, the current focus is on the communities of Blacon and Newton.
Most recently, they’ve partnered with Chester FC Community Trust to start their own community wellbeing walks on a Thursday morning in Blacon. The charity is also working with a few local schools to support their gardening clubs to create the next generation gardeners. They’ve also recently proudly donated towards the Dee Point Primary School ‘Stars Shelter’ project and are excited to see this project be brought to life.
If you’re interested in hearing more about what the charity is up to, or if you have a project you would like The Swettenham Foundation to support, please have a look at our website or get in touch via our social media pages.
Website: The Swettenham Foundation
Facebook: The Swettenham Foundation
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