Babyzone, a play space for 0 to 5 year olds in Thornton Heath, held a winter wellbeing event to encourage parents and families to stay healthy over winter.
The event was funded by NHS South West London, which awarded small grants to community organisations to run events and activities that support local people to stay healthy, and talk about local NHS services and vaccinations.
Around 197 families came to the event and took part in Babyzone’s winter themed activities including baby and toddler sensory classes and a ‘Chill n’ Play’ session ran by Homestart Croydon.
While the children were entertained with an active play session, parents occupied themselves by speaking to a variety of health professionals who presented information on health and mental health services, energy advice and maternity support*.
Through conversations, parents were able to seek advice, ask questions and share their experiences of local health and care services.
It was a busy and lively event at Babyzone where families could spend quality time with their children while also engaging with a range of ‘information stations’ and workshops about local health services and support available in the community. The event was such a huge success and we hope to hold it annually for the benefit of Croydon families.
Jessica Barnaschone, Head of Babyzone Croydon.
NHS South West London awarded a total of 94 grants of up to £500 each across south west London through its winter engagement fund.
The grants were awarded to grassroot organisations who have reach into the community and will help share health messages to those disproportionately affected by health inequalities (unequal access to and outcomes from healthcare depending on your life circumstances).
NHS South West London continues to work in partnership with Croydon Voluntary Action and the local voluntary sector to fund activities over the winter period, ensuring that communities have the right information and resources to stay healthy over the next couple of months.