Our Community Chest backed a Play and Activity Day at Heyford Park
Families in Oxfordshire enjoyed a day of free fun and connection recently, thanks to funding from our Community Chest.
Oxfordshire Play Association – or OPA – was awarded a grant to support its Heyford Park Play and Activity Day at the Village Green, Upper Heyford.
The event followed the success of last year’s first ever Heyford Park Playday, which attracted hundreds of families and received overwhelmingly positive feedback. Returning for a second year, the Play and Activity Day once again offered free entry and free activities for all, ensuring inclusion and accessibility for local children, young people and their families.
The day was part of OPA’s wider programme of Play and Activity Days, inspired by National Playday, which promotes every child’s right to play. Since 2012, OPA has delivered more than 150 such events across Oxfordshire, attended by more than 160,000 people.
Martin Gillett, OPA and Project Manager said: “These play days are about much more than fun, they’re about community spirit, physical activity and improving wellbeing. Families are facing real pressures with the cost of living, so offering a free day of activities is vital to ensure all children have the chance to play, socialise and feel part of something positive. We were delighted to return to Heyford Park earlier this summer and are so grateful for Platform’s support in making this happen.”
The day featured a wide range of activities from sports and games to creative play using natural and recycled materials. The event also provided opportunities for families to access information about local services, healthy lifestyles and community groups.
Chris Reed, our Community Investment Project Manager said: “This project is a fantastic example of the difference our Community Chest fund can make. By supporting events like this, we’re helping to tackle loneliness, promote wellbeing and bring people together in a safe, inclusive environment. We were proud to play a part in bringing such a positive day to the heart of the Heyford Park community.”
The event welcomed around 500 people, with at least half of these being our customers.
Our Community Chest provides grants of up to £5000 for customer led projects and local community initiatives that tackle isolation, promote wellbeing and encourage inclusion.
For more information about our Community Chest and how to apply, visit wwwplatformhg.com/community-chest.
Photo caption : Children enjoying themselves at the activity day in Heyford Park