Our Story
The inspiration to start this non-profit was deeply personal, stemming from my own journey through pregnancy and early motherhood. When I became pregnant, I found myself in a new area, far from family, and struggling with the transition into my new role. My partner was often away due to work commitments, and I felt a profound sense of isolation. This experience highlighted the urgent need for a supportive community space for people like me.
After giving birth, I experienced postpartum depression. Fortunately, I found some solace through friends I had met in a local aquanatal class. However, I realised how challenging it was to access resources and find a community quickly. Reflecting on my time as a full-time nanny in London, where play cafés were a sanctuary for both children and caregivers, I saw a clear gap in our local area. These cafés offered a much-needed respite, allowing us to enjoy a great cup of coffee and meet other adults while the children played happily and safely nearby. The more I spoke to other mums at playgroups and breastfeeding support groups, the more I discovered that many people shared similar challenges and the need for more support.
Ulverston boasts a wonderful culture with excellent services, but it lacks a central hub where parents can gather and access information about local resources. So I reached out to my long-time friend and fellow young mum, Rhian, and together we decided to create Temple of Play to fill this void. Later down the line, local legend, Beth Skinner, was leaving her role as the leader of Baby Sensory and Toddler Sense South Lakes, and we were beyond thrilled that she wanted to come aboard. We all know first-hand that social isolation can severely impact parents’ mental health, which in turn affects their children’s well-being.
Temple of Play will not only provide a safe and fun space for children to play, grow and interact, but will also become a haven for parents and carers to relax and find a sense of belonging. Mainstream coffeehouses often cater to patrons seeking a peaceful environment, often leaving parents feeling unwelcome and judged for the noise and mess that children inevitably bring. I myself have left a local café in tears because I'd found the courage to go and make a new friend, but my daughter just wouldn't stop screaming; I had to leave 20 minutes after arriving with my breakfast in a box...
At Temple of Play, we will embrace the lively nature of family life. We will create an atmosphere of acceptance, compassion and humour, where adults can feel comfortable and children are free to be their wonderfully wild selves.
In the whirlwind of early parenthood, many of us navigate a maze of responsibilities and adjustments, often feeling overwhelmed. In the absence of a traditional ‘village,’ Temple of Play will serve as a modern day gathering place where families can forge meaningful connections, exchange stories and support one another. By addressing the needs of young families and creating a space that promotes social connection, we aim to enhance the overall well-being of our community and contribute positively to the lives of grown-ups and children alike, for many years to come.