Lighthorne Heath and District Children’s Centre has been officially opened by Councillor Izzi Seccombe, Warwickshire County Council’s Portfolio Holder for Children, Young People and Families.
Following the official ribbon-cutting ceremony, on Saturday families donned their flip flops and brought their buckets and spades and picnics down to the centre on Stratford Road.
The community beach party featured sand and water play, creative fun, face painting, music and dancing, information and advice, and a ‘blender vender’ – a bicycle which blends fruit into smoothies.
In addition to the fun and games, people had the chance to find out about the services offered at Lighthorne Heath and District Children’s Centre.
Children’s centre staff and Warwickshire County Council’s Family Information Service will be on hand to answer questions and offer advice.
The creation of new children’s centres is being led by Warwickshire County Council as part of the Government’s initiative to develop centres in every locality. Lighthorne Heath’s and District Children’s Centre is managed by the Pre-school Learning Alliance and will offer fun activities, initiatives and support services for children under five, their families and carers.
Based at Lighthorne Heath Primary School, the centre will act as a focal point within the community. The services on offer include Stay and Play drop-in sessions, antenatal and parenting support, information and advice for parents and support for childminders.
The centre also offers advice about benefits, tax credits and links to employment opportunities with Jobcentre Plus.