Swindon Hostel Residents Benefit from Generous Lego Donation from Local Toy Shop
By Community Correspondent
Residents at Booth House Lifehouse, a Salvation Army-run hostel in Swindon that provides assisted accommodation for people experiencing homelessness, are receiving a boost to their wellbeing thanks to a substantial Lego donation from The Entertainer toy shop in Swindon.
The hostel, located at 1 Spring Close, recently introduced a Lego club as part of its holistic recovery programme.
Following a call for community support, the team was thrilled to receive 6 kilograms of Lego from the local store.
Chloe Kirwan, Program Manager at Booth House Lifehouse, explained that the contribution comes at a particularly important time. While structured group sessions have proven very popular, staff identified a need for creative activities during quieter periods.
Chloe said:
“On behalf of the residents, we say thank you to The Entertainer for their generosity and support of the Swindon community. Evenings are often quiet in the building and this can be a vulnerable time. Residents often come down to our communal area because they don't want to be alone in their rooms.
"Lego is frequently requested because it keeps them busy, occupies their minds, and provides a meaningful way to engage with others. It’s not as structured as a formal group activity; they can build whatever they want, for as long or as short as they please. The donation is now ensuring that residents have access to this therapeutic activity whenever they need it most.”
The 50-bed Lifehouse provides 24-hour referral-only accommodation and resettlement support for single men and women over 18 who are experiencing homelessness, often due to addiction, mental health challenges, or financial difficulties.
The Lego club fits naturally into the wider recovery pathway, helping residents build skills such as patience, focus, and teamwork.
Residents have already shared their experiences with the Lego club, highlighting its positive impact on mental health:
"Activities like this keep my mind busy, stop me getting bored and getting into trouble."
"It’s nice to come down and sit with company, even if no one wants to talk. Just being able to sit with people and do something is really beneficial for my mental health."
"It brings back some lovely memories for me when I was younger. I have no idea what I am building, but it’s good to have a go."
Reflecting on conversations with residents, Chloe emphasized the therapeutic benefits of Lego. The donation came after staff member Jay Wiles reached out to several local toy stores to support the club.
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Booth House Lifehouse continues to offer structured pathways to long-term housing, alongside practical support such as life skills development, healthcare access, and addiction recovery programmes within a safe environment.
Residents also receive employment guidance, budgeting advice, and emotional support.
Practical opportunities include work experience through initiatives like The Sandwich People, which trains residents in food safety and customer service, and Recycles, a bike workshop teaching mechanical skills.
To learn more about Booth House Lifehouse and its programmes, visit: Booth House Swindon Lifehouse | The Salvation Army.
