Fun, food and future skills

“I can’t thank you all enough for running playscheme through the holidays…As a working mum, it’s a weight off my shoulder to know ‘K’ is socialising and having fun while I’m in work. He’s thoroughly enjoyed the trips.”

Thanks to £25,000 from the Principality Building Society’s Future Generations Fund, Bonymaen Kids Play Initiative has been able to run regular play and afterschool clubs, holiday playschemes and weekend activities, offering a safe, fun space for local children and meaningful volunteering opportunities for young people. 

Affordable childcare, positive activities and healthy food are not always easy to access, especially during the holidays. The funding has supported regular term-time clubs, holiday playschemes, weekend trips, hot meals, and even a residential experience – all for children aged 5–12. Meanwhile, 30 young volunteers gained knowledge of food prep and built skills and confidence in leading games, helping the younger children; they also participated in the interview process for new members of staff. 

Parents reported happier, more active children with a big weight off their shoulders. Volunteers described their “best summer ever,” and children said the trips, new friendships, and activities made it their “best day ever.” Even young people like ‘C’, who struggled at first, grew through mentoring and support, learning to take responsibility and make better decisions.