Disadvantaged children living in unsuitable housing i.e. overcrowded, temporary accommodation, hostels or refuges often miss out on many of the givens of normal family life, such as playing with toys, and having the space to run around. Babies and toddlers can be confined to their cots or buggies. Research shows that if children under two fail to meet their expected milestones it is difficult for them to catch up. We aim to address this and ensure all children have an opportunity to develop.

We run a free playgroup for children aged 1-5 with fully qualified early years’ practitioners who support children’s development and assist their learning and growing through play, in a safe, stimulating environment where noise and messy play are not a problem, often a contrast to their living conditions. We give children and parents respite from the stresses of daily life which are often magnified due to inadequate living conditions. We aim to meet the individual needs of the children.