Communities Connected project transforms outdoor space for Worcester nursery

A major community partnership project has transformed the outdoor play area at a Worcester nursery, creating a safer and more accessible environment for local children and families. 

The project, delivered as part of our Communities Connected programme, brought together colleagues, community organisations, contractors and local businesses to redevelop the outdoor area at the Lighthouse Family Centre in Worcester. 

The nursery’s outdoor play space had become difficult to use due to persistent mud and waterlogging, limiting children’s access to outdoor learning and play opportunities throughout the year. 

Following a visit to the nursery after a previous Community Chest funding project, we identified the significant impact the issue was having on children, families and staff and began exploring how Communities Connected could support a longer term solution. 

Around 80 per cent of the children and families using the nursery are our customers, with many families accessing government funded childcare places. 

What began as a small improvement project quickly developed into a large collaborative effort involving colleagues, Property Care teams, volunteers, community organisations and local suppliers. 

Support was provided by organisations including Travis Perkins, City Electrical Factors, Wilkes Scaffolding, Wickes and Tesco, who donated materials, expertise and labour free of charge to help deliver the transformation. 

Additional creative support was provided by Worcester Paint festival, while alternative education provider N-hance designed and supplied bespoke planters for the nursery. 

The redevelopment has created a significantly improved outdoor environment, allowing children to safely access outdoor learning and play activities all year round while also improving the day to day nursery environment for staff and families. 

The project also formed part of our wider commitment to supporting thriving communities through practical partnership and working and social value initiatives. 

Chris Pinson-Bradley, our Community Engagement Manager said: “This project is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when colleagues, partners and local organisations come together around a shared purpose. 

“The improvements made at the Lighthouse Family Centre will have a lasting positive impact for local children and families and demonstrates the real value of collaborative community investment. 

“Communities Connected is about creating meaningful, visible and lasting change within the neighbourhoods we serve and this project truly reflects that.” 

The Communities Connected programme encourages colleagues and partners to work together on projects that strengthen communities and improve local neighbourhoods across the Midlands.   

Photo caption : The official launch of the revamped outdoor area at The Lighthouse Family Centre in Worcester.