Theatr Iolo gives away 200 free creative play packs to families in need

The children and young people’s theatre company were awarded a generous grant from Barratt  Foundation earlier this year to create the packs for children living locally. The money received enabled Theatr Iolo to create and give away 200 packs containing craft materials aimed at children aged 5-11, to families who wouldn’t have otherwise been able to afford them.

The Cardiff based company teamed up with Naz Syed from Ziba Creative to create the packs that included paper, scissors, glue, paints and pens, as well as lots of ideas, instructions and templates to inspire children.  The packs were then distributed to families through Oasis, who provide support for refugee and asylum seekers in Cardiff, and Barnardo’s Cymru.

“Creativity and play are essential for children to develop new skills and use their imaginations, as well as offering them new ways to explore the world around them.  But the reality is that many families simply can’t afford to spend money on craft supplies such as scissors and glue. The grant from the Barratt Foundation has enabled us to reach hundreds of families and has hopefully brought a lot of joy those who have received the play packs.”

Sarah Gilbert
Communications and Engagement Manager, Theatr Iolo

“Theatr Iolo are creating a world where play is accessible to all children, regardless of their economic background. Amidst the cost of living crisis, play materials have become a luxury for many refugee or asylum seeking families in Cardiff, who are struggling to put food on the table.”
Oasis, Cardiff

Theatr Iolo hope to create more creative play packs in the future and have recently been selected to be part of Co-op’s Local Community Fund. Co-op members can now choose to raise money for Theatr Iolo when shopping at the Co-op. To support the young people’s theatre company, Co-op members simply need to log on to their online account and select Theatr Iolo as their chosen cause. For every £1 members spend on selected Co-op branded products and services, 2p will go directly to their chosen cause.