The Howgill Family Centre, a local charity dedicated to supporting early years learning and family well-being in Copeland, has unveiled its newly transformed outdoor play area.

Thanks to funding and volunteer support from Sellafield Ltd, Mitie, and a group of dedicated suppliers, children and families in the community now have access to an engaging and inclusive space for outdoor play and learning.

The Howgill Family Centre works tirelessly to provide essential care and curriculum support to families and children aged 0-5 in Whitehaven and its surrounding areas.

With a team of over 30 staff members and several volunteers, their mission is to ensure that every child and family in Copeland is respected, included, and resilient, while embracing opportunities for growth.

Recognising the importance of outdoor play in early childhood development, the Howgill Family Centre sought assistance via Cumbria Exchange, an online portal connecting charities and community groups with businesses willing to provide support.

The Centre’s outdoor play area in Cleator Moor had deteriorated over time and suffered from frequent flooding, prompting the call for help.

In response, Mitie, a leading facilities management company, swiftly stepped forward to develop a comprehensive plan that would address the nursery’s needs and maximise the available space.

With the support of their supply chain and funding from Sellafield Ltd through its social impact multiplied program, Mitie spearheaded the delivery of improvements worth over £45,000, completely free of charge.

Several other suppliers, including Stobbarts Ltd, HCS Water Treatment Ltd, Decking Design Ltd, Rigby Taylor Ltd, AR & CA Fawcett, Thomas Graham, and Future Office, also contributed to the project, providing valuable resources and expertise.

The result of this collective effort is a fully transformed outdoor space, featuring multiple sensory play areas that cater to the diverse needs and interests of children and their families.

The new play area ensures a safe and secure environment, allowing children to enjoy outdoor play throughout the year, regardless of weather conditions.

Stephanie Carrick, the nursery manager at Howgill, expressed her gratitude, saying: “It looks amazing. This work wouldn’t have been possible without this support. The donation of labour and materials has been a huge help and has been gratefully received by all at the centre.”

Carrick emphasised that the sustainable play area, which no longer floods, would have a lasting positive impact on the local community.

Mitie volunteers, Dan Proctor, Junior Project Manager, and Ian Hodgson, Landscapes Operational Supervisor, managed the project and were thrilled with the results. They highlighted the personal and professional growth they experienced through their voluntary roles and expressed their joy in witnessing the positive impact the new play area would have on children for years to come.

Tracey West, senior social impact manager for Sellafield Ltd, praised the collaborative efforts of all involved, remarking: “This project really highlights the scale of the difference that can be made by working together.”

West commended Mitie for encouraging their workforce and suppliers to engage in the project and urged individuals to explore volunteering opportunities through platforms like Cumbria Exchange.