We hope to upgrade the outdoor play space at Finmill Community Centre to be more accessible, welcoming and safe for the families who use our centre, including those with additional support needs or mobility challenges.
Description
The outdoor space at the Finmill Centre needs updates to improve safety, especially for children and those with mobility issues. To make the area safe, welcoming, and accessible, it needs seating, sensory equipment, planting, safe play equipment, fencing, and new surfaces. Currently, the tarmac surface with small stones is unsafe for children, toddlers, and people with mobility issues. Although there is a ramp, it leads to rough surfacing, which is unsuitable.
The area lacks welcoming spaces for the community to sit, chat, or play. The Finmill cafes exist, but outdoor areas with safe seating are inaccessible for people. The local priority indicates a desire for such amenities.
Children's groups could use the space for outdoor play, enhancing learning in nature. This enclosed play area would offer safe spaces for all children, including those with additional needs. Families can spend time together outdoors without safety concerns. Adults can enjoy the café and outdoor seating, improving mental health and wellbeing.
The outdoor space will encourage community interaction and connections. These improvements align with local priorities and promote greater community engagement.
A local community survey revealed a desire for a safe and welcoming outdoor space at the Finmill Centre, suitable for families. The local playgroup and youth and family groups reported safety concerns, indicating the urgent need for improvements. The playgroup has deemed the current surfacing unsuitable for young children to play on, or use bikes, scooters, or prams. Children with ASN would benefit from a sensory area with equipment that aids their development. The family group which supports parents with children with additional support in many areas, have expressed they would like a nature-connected area with a sensory garden and safe play zones. Such an environment is crucial for children's development, fostering expression and creativity. The survey indicated that a safe, welcoming outdoor space would enhance community engagement and encourage its use.
The outdoor area should be a safe and welcoming space for everyone to use, from young children to adults. It should be a space to be creative, encourage curiosity particularly amongst children and promote wellbeing. A sensory space for all to use and enjoy, building positive relationships across the ages and throughout the community.
Funds would be used to pay for mud kitchen, play panel, balance block, seating, picnic table accessible, picnic table recycled plastic, sensory mirror leaves, sensory flower mirrors, sensory planting, Buddy bench, resurfacing, bins
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