New Bright Space opens in London to support victims of Domestic Abuse
The Bright Horizons Foundation for Children has officially opened its 91st Bright Space’ in London, in partnership with Solace Women’s Aid at a refuge for women and children who are victims of domestic abuse.
The Foundation has partnered with Solace Women’s Aid to design and set-up this latest Bright Space. which has been created in memory of a Bright Horizons employee who was tragically a victim of domestic abuse.
Alanna Powell, Services Manager at Solace Women’s Aid said: “The team is delighted that the children’s and young people’s playroom here has been transformed into a Bright Space. The children and families were consulted and provided input to the design and functionality of the playroom with the team and volunteers from the Foundation. A safe space to explore, play and make positive memories is such an important part of the children and young people’s recovery when they come to the refuge.”
The Foundation and its volunteers transformed the playroom at the refuge so that it now provides therapeutic and calm spaces to help children recover from trauma. The Bright Space includes a homework area, a book corner, a soft sofa area and has dedicated areas for creative and sensory resources.
Delivering this particular Bright Space has been made possible by a donation from The Fence Club charity and three sponsored walks organised by Bright Horizons’ Growth Team which raised over £4,000. The Foundation also received help from Bright Horizons’ maintenance partner, Linaker which dedicated time and their own resources to paint the room.
Lindsey, Service Delivery Manager at Bright Horizons, who led the project said: “I am so pleased that we have been able to make a difference to victims, in memory of our colleague, and I hope it will bring joy to the women and children using it.”
Denise Priest, Trustee and Director of The Bright Horizons Foundation for Children, said: “We hope this new Bright Space will positively impact the vital work of Solace Women’s Aid to keep vulnerable children safe and supported. Trauma in childhood affects children’s physical, emotional and intellectual growth, and development. Bright Spaces are designed to help. Safe, enriching, and nurturing play environments provide children in crisis the opportunity to heal from trauma through play.”
The Foundation is focused on improving the lives of vulnerable children and families experiencing crisis and disadvantage. Its Bright Spaces are enriching play environments for children impacted by domestic violence, abuse, homelessness, parental imprisonment, and ill health, and are designed to help children heal from trauma through play.
For more information about the Bright Horizons Foundation for Children and the work that it does please visit here. You can also donate to their Just Giving page here.