About

For over two decades, Assist Teignbridge have been the backbone of support in Dawlish, Teignmouth, and surrounding areas. Our staff and volunteers provide a range of paid and free community support services, catering to those facing mobility, frailty, or sensory challenges.

Note: mention the history of the previous charity as this covers the whole journey i.e. the 20+ years

Our Charity – Assist Teignbridge is at the heart of the community, providing a range of services to those in need. Our staff and volunteers empower clients to partake in activities that might otherwise remain out of reach.

Our paid services are provided by fully-trained care staff, and encompass a wide range of tasks, such as sitting and home care, home help services, nail trimming and enabling as well as offering support during hospital appointments, shopping outings and excursions.

Our Volunteer Centre promotes volunteering and supports individuals wishing to volunteer, to find a rewarding placement locally or within our own Community Support Scheme. This Scheme aims to support elderly people and others in need in our community to maintain their independence for as long as possible, whilst also preventing the adverse effects of isolation on their physical and mental well-being. Our free services, delivered by volunteers, a: befriending, benefits checks, de-cluttering, walking dogs, tending to gardens, emergency shopping, wheelchair accompaniment and joining local exercise sessions.

The tireless efforts of our volunteers have undeniably enhanced the quality of life of many residents in our community.

Our Vision

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Our charity envisions a compassionate community where everyone receives the support they need to thrive, regardless of limitations or circumstances. We strive to foster independence, alleviate isolation, and enhance well-being initiatives making our community a place of inclusivity, empowerment, and genuine care. You can read our Statement of Purpose here. 

• COMPASSION
• SUPPORT
• CARE
• HELP
• INDEPENDENCE
• PATIENCE

Our Team

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Sophie Airey

Sophie manages all the administration and coordinates the nail trimming service. Sophie can always direct you to the right team member.

You can speak to Sophie on 01626 889288

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Dawn Rivers

Assist Teignbridge Charity Manager, Dawn Rivers, is an integral part of Assist Teignbridge and brings a wealth of knowledge to the organisation

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Christine Marshall

Chrisi is the Volunteer coordinator and provides invaluable support, training and advice to our army of volunteers who provide our free services.

For more info on our free services or volunteering please call Chrisi on 01626 888321.

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Emma Houghton

Emma is the care and home help coordinator. With one simple phone call Emma can discuss your requirements and arrange a home visit to help access you or your family members needs.

Please call Emma on 01626 889288.

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Shirley Fewings MBE

Shirley is the Registred Manager of Assist Teignbridge and has been with the charity for over 20 years.

Shirley is instrumental in overseeing the charity from top to bottom and is the anchor stone to its human touch. 

Testimonials

I have a volunteer befriender who regularly visits me – I am very happy with her  –  she is so reliable, friendly and supportive of me. Thank you

I am writing to say how pleased I am to have been awarded Attendance Allowance and to acknowledge the efforts of the volunteer, without whose efforts I would not have been able to fill in the forms

I was so pleased that my husband has been granted AA at the higher rate. Thank you for your support and advice, – we now have a blue badge as wellThe tireless efforts of our volunteers have undeniably enhanced the quality of life of many residents in our community.