Hackney-based children’s charity, Hackney Playbus, have launched a new crowdfunding campaign to help raise money to kit out their new double decker bus.
Trustee Emma Bridge, told the Hackney Post: “The playworkers that work on the Playbus are able to build relationships with parents and carers, and spot opportunities to signpost them to other kinds of services, such as health visitors and speech and language therapists.”
Many families from Hackney’s most deprived areas, including those who live in temporary hostel accommodation, benefit from the support and guidance that Hackney Playbus provides.
However, under new government Ultra Low Emission Zone regulations, the current Playbus is no longer roadworthy.
So the charity has bought a new bus but they still need £30,000 to refurbish it and create a welcoming environment for children and families.
Over £21,000 has been raised so far but Bridge says: “We’re very conscious that these things can often go off with a bang but then tail off a little bit- so, we’re really keen to keep up momentum.”
The Hackney Playbus team hope to have the new bus on the road by the end of May, as Covid-19 regulations are being relaxed further.
The charity has been providing virtual support services during the pandemic, including online activities and group sessions for children and families. Bridge told Hackney Post that they hope to continue to provide some of these services even once the new bus is up and running.
