The Bridge launched by Wyn Goggins in Wythenshawe
The Bridge, a new playgroup and community facility for Wythenshawe, was officially launched on Friday, 11th July by The Children of Success Schools Trust, the governing Academy Trust of Haveley Hey and The Willows Primary Schools.
The Children of Success Schools Trust purchased the building on Gladeside Road, formerly used as a Barnardos and Sure Start Centre, earlier this year. It will be a great base to provide support to local children, families and bridge the gaps that often exist between schools, parents and the wider community. It will have a particular focus on supporting young children in readiness for school, with a new playgroup for 2 year olds opening in the autumn. It will also provide a base for Homestart South Manchester and there will be a nurture room for children with educational needs and a suite of community rooms for hire.
The late Paul Goggins MP was instrumental in helping The Children of Success Schools Trust purchase the building and his widow, Wyn Goggins was guest of honour at the opening event. Local school children from The Willows and Haveley Hey were also represented along with Mike Kane MP and other guests who have helped with the launch of The Bridge.
Sarah Murray, Head Teacher at Haveley Hey Community School, said; “We are delighted that Wyn Goggins has been able to help us officially launch this exciting project today. Paul provided invaluable support in helping us purchase this building and we wanted to recognise this and celebrate his involvement so we have named the Community Room in his memory.
“The Trust would also like to thank Wythenshawe Community Housing Group for their support and all their help in fitting out the Community Room and refurbishing the kitchen.”
Eddy Newman, Chair of Wythenshawe Community Housing Group (WCHG) and also a Governor of The Willows, said; “Wythenshawe Community Housing Group take a very pro-active stance in community investment and The Bridge will be an excellent facility and resource for the people of Wythenshawe. We wish it every success in its delivery of much-needed support to local families.”
