North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Andy Dunbobbin has visited a community hub in Denbighshire to see how money seized from criminals is being used to fund free weekly support sessions for parents with young children.
Funding from crime proceeds
The initiative, called Blossom and Play, received funding through the Your Community, Your Choice scheme, supported by the police and community trusts. A public vote helped select the project, which offers weekly play sessions for parents and children up to three years old. The sessions run until September 2026 and focus on improving mental health and tackling loneliness.
Addressing pressing challenges
During the visit, officers and community leaders spoke directly with parents about the challenges they face. Organisers highlighted growing levels of financial hardship, social isolation, and domestic abuse among local families. The sessions help build resilience, connect neighbours, and provide early years support.
Vicky Welsman, founder of Blossom and Bloom, said: “We are incredibly grateful to have received funding through Your Community, Your Choice, which has enabled us to launch Blossom and Play and provide free support for families across Denbighshire and Conwy.” She added: “Many parents with young children experience feelings of isolation, loneliness, and a lack of confidence, particularly when facing financial pressures or difficult life circumstances. Through these sessions, we are creating welcoming and supportive spaces where families can connect, build friendships and access activities that promote both parental wellbeing and early childhood development.”
Partnerships praised
Police leaders praised the charity for partnering with other local organisations to create a strong support network. PCC Andy Dunbobbin said: “What is particularly impressive about Blossom and Bloom is the way it has developed strong and meaningful partnerships with organisations such as Little Movers, Denbighshire Leisure, Queen’s Market and Flying Start. By working collaboratively, these organisations are helping to ensure families can access the support, opportunities, and connections they need to thrive.”
He continued: “Blossom and Bloom is making a real difference in the lives of parents and families, and this work aligns closely with the priorities set out in my Police and Crime Plan. By providing early intervention, strengthening family resilience, and encouraging positive community engagement, Blossom and Bloom is helping to prevent problems from escalating, support vulnerable people and contribute to safer, stronger neighbourhoods.”
Early intervention key
Local policing heads stressed the importance of early intervention. Jacqueline Downes, Head of Local Policing, said: “Policing cannot tackle the issues that affect communities on its own. We know that early support for families and parents can help reduce vulnerability, build resilience, and prevent problems from escalating later in life. The partnership approach demonstrated by Blossom and Bloom is particularly encouraging. By bringing together local organisations to support families, the project is helping to strengthen community connections and ensure that people can access the right support, at the right time, in the right place.”
Community impact
Community leaders highlighted the importance of early childhood development. Ashley Rogers, PACT Chairman, commented: “The early years are such an important stage in a child’s development, and supporting parents during this time can make a significant difference to the whole family. It is fantastic to see funding generated through the Proceeds of Crime Act being reinvested into initiatives like Blossom and Play that help people feel supported, connected, and empowered within their communities.”
The overall funding programme has awarded more than £700,000 to 234 community projects over the last 13 years. To learn more about PACT, visit www.pactnorthwales.co.uk. To learn more about the charity, visit https://blossomandbloom.org.uk/well-being-hub-rhyl/.
