'Phenomenal' charity opens new parents' hub

A Newcastle-based kids charity has opened a new parents’ hub thanks to a city construction company.

Children North East (CNE) runs a families and parenting hub in Cowgate, Newcastle, providing vital support to the local community as part of its role creating “life-changing differences for babies, children and young people” in the region.

But the outdoor space was limited in its use and lack of places for play until long-term CNE supporter Martin Westgate, business development director at Robertson Construction North East came in to help.

The company, who have been working with the charity for more than two decades, organised the building of a new outdoor covered play space which has now been officially opened. 

The project also included the replacement of a shed to provide storage for outdoor play equipment, including bikes and scooters the kids previously couldn’t use regularly and the outdoor covered space is now being used for activities such as dancing sessions for pre-schoolers, arts and crafts groups and support groups for local parents. 

Martin and Robertson have been working with the charity since the mid 2000s, raising money for CNE’s annual charity ball and sponsoring the charity’s Sandcastle Challenge event on South Shield Beach for several years.  

And in recognition of his fundraising for the charity, CNE has named the new outdoor space 'Martin’s Place', with a plaque being unveiled at its official opening last month. 

Martin said: “Children North East is a phenomenal organisation and Robertson has helped to raise tens of thousands of pounds for them over the years. When we heard that we could use our expertise to help make a difference to the Cowgate Community Hub, we were more than willing to help out. It’s a joy to see the space complete and being used by kids to enjoy outdoor play.”  

Billie Jenkins, CNE fundraising manager added: “Having this multi-use space will be transformative for the communities accessing Hub services, especially as many have limited access to outside play spaces. Children North East cannot thank those involved in the build enough for giving the children, young people and families this wonderful opportunity to get outside and closer to nature.” 

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