Local families enjoyed a heartwarming afternoon of community spirit and support on Tuesday, August 19th, when Goughs partnered with their charity of the year, Home-Start North Wiltshire, to host a delightful teddy bear picnic in Melksham.
The free family event brought together lots of local parents and children, providing a much-needed boost during the summer holidays. Each family received a delicious lunchbox courtesy of local sandwich shop The Picnic Box in Melksham, along with a brand-new teddy bear for the children to choose and take home.
“It was a special day and wonderful to see firsthand how our charity of the year makes a real difference in our community,” said Daisy Froggatt, Marketing Executive at Goughs.
“Meeting the families that Home-Start North Wiltshire supports and seeing their joy throughout the afternoon was truly heartwarming,” added Samamtha Petterson, Associate Solicitor at Goughs.
The event received overwhelmingly positive feedback from attendees, with 100% of participants reporting they felt welcomed at the event and 100% agreeing it was well-organised. The provision of free picnic food, teddy bear gifts and opportunities to connect with other families and volunteers were highlighted as the most valued aspects of the day.
One parent shared, “Really lovely event – fantastic to be able to do something completely free as a family. We felt really cared for.”
Another added, “Thank you so much for this afternoon. We all had such a lovely time! The picnic was delicious, and the teddy bears were really appreciated.”
The timing proved particularly valuable for families during the lengthy summer break, with the attendees agreeing the event helped them during the school holidays. “We didn’t have much going on for the summer,” commented one grateful parent. “This event gave us a boost.”
“We were thrilled when Goughs suggested organising a Teddy Bear picnic for our supported families in Melksham,” commented Joanne Kent, Fundraiser & Community Engagement Organiser.
“The school holidays can prove especially challenging for our families, so it was wonderful to give them a fun activity to enjoy together. Everyone had a wonderful time, and we are incredibly grateful to Goughs for their support and enthusiasm to get involved! ”
Get Involved
Home-Start North Wiltshire supports families with young children who are experiencing challenging times including isolation, loneliness, financial struggles, poor health, and multiple birth. Support is offered through their free home-visiting and group support services which provides emotional and practical support.
The charity helps families living in Melksham, Calne, Chippenham, Devizes, Marlborough, Tidworth and Pewsey. Group support is offered in Melksham, Trowbridge and Tidworth.
Families interested in joining the Melksham group or learning more about Home-Start North Wiltshire’s services can find information about:
- Parent and Child Groups: Regular support groups for parents/ carers and children under five in a calm and supportive setting
- Home-Visiting: Trained volunteers offer weekly one-to-one support in your own home
- Volunteering: Opportunities to support local families in your community
For more information about Home-Start North Wiltshire’s services or opportunities to volunteer, visit Home-Start North Wiltshire | We’re there for parents when they need us the most, because childhood can’t wait.
