Funding boost for play charity

A Thatcham charity that gives children with disabilities the opportunity to play has received a £3,000 boost from a five-star home builder.

Swings & Smiles, which works with children with a range of disabilities, applied to the Community Champions scheme seeking funding for a new play leader. 

Our Charles Church Thames Valley team, currently building at the Lambourn Meadows site opposite the charity’s play centre in Thatcham, was keen to support the appeal and donated £3,000 to Swings & Smiles. 

The play charity supported 1,460 families last year and with additional funding they can open up their range of play sessions to even more families desperate for their services. 

Children are offered group sessions with their families, allowing them to play with those with similar needs while parents can share their experiences of caring for a child with disabilities. The charity also offers respite to allow parents to have a well-deserved break, knowing their child is safe. 

Rhonda Nicklin, Chief Executive Officer for the Swings & Smiles charity, said “Our play leaders have the skills to open up the world of play to children who have a range of disabilities and additional needs, and they can give parents the skills to do that at home too. Thank you to Charles Church for this donation which will allow us to help even more families here in Thatcham.” 

Cllr Justin Pemberton, Ward Member for Thatcham West at West Berkshire Council and Portfolio Holder for Public Safety and Community Engagement, commented “I’m always blown away by the dedication, commitment and tenacity shown by Swings & Smiles, which is valued by so many families in our community.  

“It continues to make a significant difference to people’s lives, and it’s great to see this donation by Charles Church as recognition of that. Thank you to Charles Church for standing with the community and helping to support the charity with its work.” 

 Lee Farmer, Land Director for Persimmon Homes Charles Church, added “We want to create a lasting legacy in the communities in which we are building, and by supporting Swings & Smiles we are doing just that here in Thatcham.” 

The Charles Church development at Lambourn Meadows offers a range of two, three and four bedroom homes, including 37 homes for those in housing need or wanting a shared ownership property to start them on their property journey.