Case Study 1

May I say thank you to everyone at the children’s centre for a really enjoyable Christmas party earlier today. It was clear that a good deal of thought and work went into planning the event as well as on the day. The timetable was well thought through, the activities great fun, the gift of a book and party bag for each child very generous and the lunch very tasty (and healthy).

The staff could not have been kinder or more welcoming (for example, taking care to make sure every parent or carer had been able to take lunch if they wanted to). The singing and story time was very well delivered with a good plug for the use of children’s library services.

We go along to Baby Club at the centre most Tuesdays. Dolores and the lady who is usually on the front reception desk are always so friendly and welcoming. During the sessions Dolores in particular has a lovely way of getting people from different backgrounds to chat and thereby encourage and help one another. (I do not know the name of the other lady who is also there sometimes but she too is lovely – it is the lady who is always smiling.) I sincerely hope the Centre continues to receive the funding it needs as it is such an important, inclusive community meeting point for parents and carers. I may send this to Mr Biggs, the mayor, if I can find his email address for I am sure he would be pleased to hear about the work you do.

Tara Wilson – (Mother of a toddler and a small baby, Wapping)