Join the fun at Delapré Abbey as this free weekly session is on a mission to build happier communities
Join the fun at Northampton’s historic landmark Delapré Abbey, as this free weekly session is on a mission to build happier and healthier communities.
ParkPlay takes place every Saturday from 10am, during which time families and people of all ages come together to have fun and make memories through the life-changing power of play.
PlayLeader Louise first went along to a session elsewhere in the country three years ago as something fun and free to do with her then two-year-old son. She then began bringing her partner and two daughters, and it is now part of their Saturday routine as a family.
“We are like one huge family at ParkPlay and we’ve made really good friends,” she said. “I was very eager to get involved, and the confidence I have gained from doing this has even helped me in my personal life.”
ParkPlay is a national charity that has been making a positive impact for more than four years. It is a safe, welcoming and inclusive way to connect, and there is no competition, pressure or cost.
Delapré Abbey ParkPlay takes place in partnership with Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust and is supported by the Northamptonshire Serious Violence Prevention Partnership.
What makes it thrive are the amazing volunteer PlayLeaders, who set up and run the sessions, make sure everyone is included, and keep everything operating smoothly.
Richard Clinton, chief executive at Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust, said: “The pandemic showed people had a real connection and hunger to explore and enjoy the great outdoors.
“ParkPlay is a great way to do that whilst also making friends in your community. We have so many families visiting the park at the weekend, we thought Delapré would make the perfect spot to start Northamptonshire’s first ParkPlay. We’re grateful to Northamptonshire Serious Violence Prevention Partnership for supporting it.”
Leader at Delapré Abbey ParkPlay Pete said: “I’m proud to help create those moments and it gives me a real sense of achievement to provide this kind of positive activity for the community. It truly feels like being part of something that makes a real difference.”