Funding secures future of Easington play group

The future of a scheme that brings different generations together through play has been secured.

A £5,000 grant from County Durham-based housing association believe housing will be used to train three new leaders for ParkPlay sessions in Easington Colliery.

For the last three years, families have gathered at Easington Colliery Primary School grounds every Saturday to enjoy two free hours of fun and games.

“Our sessions are a great way for families from across East Durham to improve their health and wellbeing by taking part in our games” said Kaye Stephenson from ParkPlay.

“It’s a safe, welcome and inclusive way for people to connect and have fun.”

Established with Sport England funding, activities are agreed by local families and planned and delivered by Play Leaders, who are usually parents or carers who attend regularly. With the sessions growing in popularity, new leaders were needed to be trained to ensure the group could continue.

“Our Play Leaders help with everything” said Kaye, who helps coordinate the sessions.

“From organising and putting away equipment, to cheering people on during the games and bringing sweet treats and hot chocolates for the families.

“At the moment our ParkPlay activities rely on two Play Leaders and if something happens to them no one is able to take over and lead the sessions.

“Having a number of back-ups will be an enormous help and reduces the risk of the sessions stopping altogether.”

Damian Pearson, Community Investment Performance Team Leader for believe housing, said:
“We want our grants to make a real difference to our communities and to customers’ wellbeing.

“The ParkPlay sessions in Easington Colliery are a perfect way for families to have fun together in the fresh air, boosting their physical and mental health.

“We’re delighted to provide the grant funding needed to train more Play Leaders to help with the growing number of participants and make the group more sustainable going forward.”

ParkPlay sessions take place at Easington Colliery Primary School every Saturday, from 10am, and are free to attend. Everyone is welcome and children under 14 should be accompanied by an adult, simply register online at: www.park-play.com/register/.