£10,000 lottery award for toddler group

Hampton Tiddlers, for children aged up to five years, will use the money for a wellbeing project to bring together parents, carers and nannies to participate in workshop events and other activities.

It aims to tackle isolation faced by parents who are unable to get out and find suitable activities for young children.

Faustina Yang, chair of Hampton Tiddlers, said: “We are thrilled to have received this fund as it will enable us to make a bigger difference to the community.

“We believe this project will help reduce isolation, improve health and wellbeing and increase participation of parents and their children in the community where they live.

“It will also help encourage families to get involved in their communities in a positive way through befriending activities and volunteering, reducing the chances of being affected by mental health issues due to isolation.

“Thank you everyone who has supported us along the way, parents and carers, businesses and individuals, especially our consultant, Amina Chitembo, for the expert guidance on the application process, Tesco Hampton for providing the space, PCVS for supporting us to grow, and a huge thanks to all of our wonderful dedicated volunteers who have made this possible.

“We look forward to the exciting journey ahead.”

Hampton Tiddlers was founded in 2014 by Faustina with support from local mums, following the closure of six children centres in Peterborough. It is a voluntary group run by volunteers. It has more than 600 families and is growing.

It was ‘Highly Commended’ at the National What’s 4 Juniors Awards 2016 for Best Baby and Toddler Group category.