Swindon North MP Sees “Life Changing” Work Of Salvation Army Rehabilitation Centre

PHOTO L-R : Darren Charles, David Durrant, Captain Martyn Watson, Justin Tomlinson MP, Alan Fletcher – Chair or Friends of Gloucester House and Susan Tollington - Manager of Gloucester House.  

SWINDON North MP Justin Tomlinson visited a Salvation Army rehabilitation centre in Highworth near Swindon last week (Friday 3 November).  

He went to see Gloucester House which has provided help for men from across the UK with drug and alcohol issues since 1961.  

During his visit, Mr Tomlinson met some of Gloucester House’s residents and had an open discussion with them about issues including addiction, homelessness and faith. He also heard about the support The Salvation Army has given them and met staff members including Gloucester House’s manager Susan Tollington and programme coordinator Ros Rolfe.  

Justin Tomlinson MP said:   “It was both interesting and enlightening to meet with the residents of Gloucester House. I was struck by the varied backgrounds the men had - from someone who had been in and out of prison, to a former teacher. It really shows that addiction doesn’t discriminate and can affect absolutely anyone. The work done by the Gloucester House team is life changing, and I was delighted to hear the residents say how positive they have found the programme.”  

Gloucester House can house up to 12 people at a time to receive treatment for substance abuse problems.   The centre provides specialist rehabilitation services for clients sent by local authorities from across the UK and individuals who pay for their own therapy privately.  

Manager Susan Tollington said: “Gloucester House is a place where The Salvation Army supports and empowers our residents to find ways to change their lives and live free from dependency. It was a pleasure to welcome Justin Tomlinson here.   

“Speaking to Mr Tomlinson, we discussed the pioneering work The Salvation Army has been doing in Highworth for almost 60 years and the expertise and support we provide here for individuals whose lives have been damaged by substance abuse.  

“Gloucester House is a place of healing where our residents can get to understand the behaviours that have held them in the grip of addiction.  

“It is also gives our residents a second chance so they can begin to rebuild their lives, regain their confidence and discover their true potential and purpose in life.”  

Gloucester House is located at 6 High Street, Highworth, Swindon, SN6 7AG.   For more information about Gloucester House, please visit www.gloucesterhouse.org.uk or call 01793 762 365.