A NEW play gym and healthy cafe is to open its doors today thanks to funding of nearly £100,000 from Better Start Bradford's Innovation Fund.

Through lockdown, WomenZone, which is based at Hubert Street, off Leeds Road, have been busy developing their new spaces for parents and under fours living in the BD3, BD4 and BD5 area of Bradford.

The main aim of The Play Gym and Hubert Street Kitchen is to create ‘big little moments’ of interaction, learning and play between parent and baby.

There will also be a playworker based at The Play Gym to promote parent and baby interactions, as research shows these positive interactions have a great impact on early brain development and ongoing learning, leading to happier and healthier lives as adults.

Sadia Sajid, Development Manager at WomenZone, said: “After months of hard work, The Play Gym and Hubert Street Kitchen are finally here.

"These new spaces will provide valuable play and healthy eating opportunities for families, encouraging parents to learn practical techniques in which they can support their child’s development. 

"As a result of this project, we hope to enhance the relationship between parents and their children to build lasting bonds. We would like to thank Better Start Bradford’s Innovation Fund, without which we would not have been able to offer these exciting opportunities to local families.”

Gill Thornton, Head of Programme at Better Start Bradford, said: “Our Innovation Fund has provided an exciting opportunity for our community to test and learn new approaches to support and enhance the first years of life.

“By providing a play facility and healthy cafe, WomenZone are not only providing fun, creative spaces for families with young children, but are also providing parents and carers with the opportunity to access support, practical training and advice.”

During their launch week, which runs from today to Thursday, May 20, 9.30am – 2.30pm, WomenZone will run one-hour tours of the centre, where the public will get exclusive access to The Play Gym and Hubert Street Kitchen, Her Gym and get involved with the family activities on offer.

WomenZone are also offering exclusive taster offers and freebies for Her Gym, Hubert Street Kitchen and more during the launch week. 

To book a tour, visit www.womenzone.co.uk or call 01274 665270, with a preferred time and the quantity of tickets needed (every person will require an advance ticket, including babies and children).

To keep everyone safe and in line with Government guidance, WomenZone are accepting ten people per time slot.