Many of the children who arrive on The Haven's doorstep, come to us with nothing more than the clothes on their backs, having had to flee from very scary and life-threatening situations at a moment's notice.

As summer approaches, we urgently need your help to replace and restore our outdoor toys and equipment across our refuges. We support over 100 children at any one time across our sites, and so our toys and equipment get lots of regular use through 121 and group play therapy sessions as well as good old-fashioned FUN in the gardens after school and at weekends.

All of this activity does however mean that toys can become tired and worn quickly. With summer just on the horizon, we urgently need YOUR support to replace a range of our outdoor equipment, all to ensure children staying with us in refuge can have a fun and safe environment to simply enjoy the joys of childhood, just like their friends at school will be.

What’s more, play is such an important tool. For children recovering from the trauma of abuse, outdoor play offers a much-needed escape and a chance to explore difficult feelings. Play helps children to build confidence, develop social skills with other children in refuge who have experienced similar trauma, and to process their emotions in a healthy way. Our current outdoor spaces are in real need of some TLC to make all of this possible… that’s where you come in.

CAN YOU HELP US?

We are seeking to raise funds to purchase things like:

• Swings and slides

• Climbing frames

• Sand and water play stations

• Outdoor games and sports equipment

• Picnic tables and seating areas

Your kind donation to our appeal will ensure children have the chance to get some fresh air in the gardens at refuge with some fun games and toys and will also help to maintain their physical and emotional wellbeing – vital to their recovery.

Thank you in advance for your generosity and support. Your donation will make a lasting impact on the lives of the children at The Haven and support them on their journey to a brighter and happier future.