Popular Peasedown toddler group wins funding for children’s play

The community of Peasedown St John has continued to pull together, and rally around to support those in need, in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

With many charities and community groups struggling to find the funds to survive, a grant scheme that solely supports projects in the village has injected cash into a popular toddler group to help it get back on its feet.

The Peasedown Party in the Park Grant Fund, which has given away over £15,000 during the last decade, has awarded a £200 grant to ‘SJ’s Little Ones’.

Based at St John’s Church, the scheme is open four mornings a week for parents to come along with their baby-to-preschool aged children to play, relax and socialise.

Closed during the pandemic, the group hopes to open its doors again in the Autumn.

Coordinator Sarah Carney said: “Our aim is to see no new mother, father or carer isolated, no toddler without toys to play with and books to read and all to be included and welcomed at our group, and thriving at this challenging stage in life.

“We aim to create a welcoming, stimulating space where parents/ carers and their children can meet, be refreshed and feel encouraged.

“We have a wonderful team of very committed volunteers who serve teas, bake amazing cakes and listen and engage with everyone at the groups.”

SJ’s Little Ones had been supporting 65 children and their parents each week before the lockdown with their large open social safe space, toy library, warm drinks and cake, and creative thoughtful and varied learning/play opportunities.

In lieu of no festival taking place this year, Festival Chairman Nathan Hartley met with Sarah Carney at the church last Tuesday to congratulate them on being awarded £200 from the Grant Fund.

Nathan said: “Despite there being no festival this year, we still wanted to do our bit to support the community. SJ’s Little Ones does fantastic work in supporting families who are isolated and in need of extra help.

“I know many parents who are looking forward to toddlers’ play re-starting again in the Autumn. It has been sorely missed and provides a support network for families who may feel lonely or isolated otherwise.“

For details about Peasedown Party in the Park, and to find out which organisations have benefited from a grant, visit www.peasedownpartyinthepark.org.uk

For more details about SJ’s Little Ones visit www.stjsgroup.church/littleones