Ref. 30936-58A SUPPORT group, which helps families whose children have special needs, has received a donation of equipment.

The Koalas Swindon Opportunity Group, which is based at the Recreation Room in the grounds of the Victoria Hospital received toys and equipment from the recently-formed Dettol Foundation.

Koalas is a voluntary group which provides children with special needs the opportunity to play alongside children without special needs in a friendly and safe environment.

The group also gives parents and carers support, information, advice and time off, as well as helping the children achieve their potential through a range of educational activities.

The Dettol Foundation has been set up by Swindon-based Reckitt Benckiser to work with the Swindon community to try and make a difference to families and young children.

Stephanie Hathaway, the co-ordinator of Koalas, said: "We are extremely thankful for the help and support that the Dettol Foundation has given.

"Being a small charity run by volunteers it is especially pleasing to see local organisations joining in and helping out."

Emma Gilbert, of the Dettol Foundation, said: "Following our first donation which went to the Great Western Hospital children's ward we are delighted to be able to provide much-needed equipment to Koalas.

"The organisation clearly makes a huge difference to the lives of those it works with to improve and we are only too pleased to be able to help their cause."

To find out more about Koalas visit the website at www.koalas.org.uk

Dettol is about to launch the Community Nurse of the Year Award 2004.

All entries must be received by the end of August when a shortlist of 30 candidates will be drawn up.

More information will be published in the Advertiser within the next couple of days and you can look at the website on www.dettolnurse.co.uk.