Perk for playtime (From Barry And District News)

Perk for playtime

A COMMUNITY centre has received more than 17,000 in funding.

As a result, Gibbonsdown Children's Centre in Barry has been able to improve its facilities.

Staff at the centre have been given a grant from Cymorth, a Welsh Assembly funding association, and have also benefited from an internet-ready PC thanks to BT Community Connections.

The centre is using its BT Community Connections Award to give parents access to the internet in order for them to research training and look for jobs.

Gill Bloom, the centre manager said: "From the funding we are now able to run short courses on IT training, yoga, sign language, health and beauty and many more.

"The new computer lets the parents access the internet and allows them to receive training opportunities as well as job opportunities.

"If they haven't got the internet at home and need to do college work, they are able to do it here.

"Our facilities are always evolving because of funding we receive."

The money has been spent on improving the centre, but the majority of the recent funding has gone towards a new play area for the children - which was the centre's main priority.

Gill said: "The one we had before was not safe and suitable for the children to play in. It needed to be improved.

"So, many people have helped towards our facilities and we are also being supported by the BBC Children In Need appeal.

"The parents of the children really appreciate all the facilities we offer. They are so reasonably priced and are a great benefit to them."