A CHARITY that has quietly supported vulnerable young people across Wiltshire for nearly 60 years is preparing to close – leaving behind a legacy that will continue to make a difference in Salisbury and beyond.

The Accommodation Welfare Committee (AWC), founded in 1969, has spent decades helping young people facing difficult circumstances to build confidence, resilience and independence.

Originally set up to support young women, its work later expanded to include young men, adapting to changing needs across the county.

Over 57 years, the organisation funded a wide range of local projects, from grassroots support services to initiatives tackling homelessness.

Now, as it prepares to close, the charity will distribute its remaining funds to four organisations: Wiltshire & Swindon Community Foundation, Rose Gale Trust, Youth Action Wiltshire and Salisbury Women’s Refuge – ensuring its work continues for years to come.

Chair Anabel Loyd said: “The AWC was founded by my grandmother and formally established in 1969 with a simple but powerful aim; to support organisations that achieve meaningful impact with limited resources in Wiltshire, which has been home to my family for generations.

“While we are sad to be closing this chapter, we are delighted the donation of our remaining funds will support the beneficiaries of these four outstanding local charities and are confident these donations will be used thoughtfully and effectively, continuing in the spirit in which the committee was established.”

Organisations have paid tribute to the charity’s long-standing impact.

Ricky Rogers, founding trustee of Salisbury-based Rose Gale Trust, said: “The AWC have been supporting our charity for over a decade, on behalf of all out trustees can I say a huge thank you for helping us support young people at vital times in their lives, this final donation will ensure that support continues for the years ahead.”

Joint chief executive of Wiltshire & Swindon Community Foundation Fiona Oliver said: “It is a real privilege to help carry forward the outstanding legacy of the AWC.”

For Salisbury Women’s Refuge, the funding will help continue vital support for women in crisis, described as “a lifeline” for those fleeing domestic abuse.

Though the charity is closing, its mission – supporting young people to build brighter futures – will live on through the organisations it leaves behind.