A heartwarming success for families and volunteers

The scheme brought together over 100 participants for a diverse range of activities, fostering physical health, mental wellbeing, and community connections.

Deeplish Community Centre has celebrated the successful conclusion of its Winter Playscheme 2024, a vibrant and inclusive initiative designed to keep children and young people safe, active, and engaged during the winter holidays.

Over two weeks during the festive period, the scheme brought together over 100 participants for a diverse range of activities, fostering physical health, mental wellbeing, and community connections.

This year also marked Deeplish Community Centre’s 35th anniversary of offering popular play schemes to children and young people.

Over the years, the centre has provided not only engaging activities but also volunteering opportunities and practical experience for countless individuals, strengthening the community and empowering its members.

The Winter Playscheme featured eight interactive sessions with highlights such as football at the Soccer Factory, nature walks at Hollingworth Lake, and festive celebrations like a Christmas dinner.

Participants learned about birds and nature, enhancing their understanding of the environment, and enjoyed creative workshops, arts and crafts, and health and wellbeing activities as well as healthy lunches.

To celebrate their participation, all attendees received festive presents, creative resources, and certificates recognising their achievements in sports, arts, nature exploration, and best behaviour.

Sohail Ahmad JP, operations manager said, “Our Winter Play scheme reflected our commitment to serving the community and improving the quality of life for children and young people”.

“The programme provided a secure and nurturing space where children could stay active, improve confidence, build friendships, and learn new skills.”

The initiative was made possible by the dedication of 32 community volunteers who contributed an impressive 1,280 hours of service.

Their support ensured smooth operations and meaningful activities for all participants. Feedback from parents and children has been overwhelmingly positive, with 92% rating the play scheme as excellent.

Chair of the charity, Mohammed Saleem JP said: “Deeplish Community Centre extends heartfelt gratitude to its participants, volunteers, staff, and partners who contributed to this successful project. Our plans are already underway to expand the programme’s reach and impact for future initiatives during 2025."