BARNARDO’S NEW COMMUNITY HUB LAUNCHED
The Triangle – behind Sainsbury’s store on Westow Street -was officially opened on Saturday, September 19 by Barnardo’s vice president Baroness Floella Benjamin OBE, who praised the positive impact the service is having in Crystal Palace and the wider area.
It features a large soft play area, activities for children and families, a Barnardo’s shop stocked with high quality children’s toys and clothes, a café and events and meeting space for hire.
The centre in Coxwell Road is open for morning and afternoon stay and play sessions three days a week on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, and on Friday mornings.
All income generated at the Triangle goes towards Barnardo’s work supporting the most vulnerable children and young people in the area.
Since its soft launch at the start of August, The Triangle has welcomed more than 700 children through its doors. Its team manager, play leader and administrator were all recruited from the neighbourhood along with a growing pool of volunteers.
Baroness Benjamin, who lives close to the service, said: “I know from experience how vital it is for families in south London to feel connected to their community, and to have high quality services close at hand.
“Local families have been flocking the Triangle in great numbers and their reaction has been overwhelmingly positive.
Lynn Gradwell, Director of Barnardo’s in London, said: “The Triangle is off to a great start and is a fantastic example of a service that’s run in the community, for the community, by the community. “I want to thank everyone who has played a part in its early success.”
To talk about offering your time at The Triangle email [email protected] or call 020 8771 0907. (Source: Barnardo’s press release)