Activities for children and young people
The Play, Learn and Thrive Project (PLTP) is a one‑year programme funded by the Moondance Foundation and The Swire Charitable Trust. The project delivers a weekly schedule of groups, classes, and activities for refugee and asylum‑seeking children and young people aged under 18.
The aim of the project is to help children and young people:
Experience greater happiness
Build strong friendships
Develop confidence
Enjoy fun, creative, and educational activities in a safe environment
What is the project?
The Play, Learn and Thrive Project (PLTP) is a one‑year programme funded by the Moondance Foundation and The Swire Charitable Trust. The project delivers a weekly schedule of groups, classes, and activities for refugee and asylum‑seeking children and young people aged under 18.
What the project delivers
Weekly term‑time groups and activities for refugee and asylum‑seeking children
Educational visits and outdoor activities during school holidays
Outdoor activities for preschool children and evening family-based workshops
Weekly evening family‑based workshops and information sessions
Weekly sessions for pre‑school children focused on outdoor play and access to community facilities
Youth activity sessions, and a holiday/half‑term programme of trips and outings
Who is the project for?
The project is designed for:
Refugee and asylum‑seeking children under 18
Families of refugee and asylum‑seeking children
Young people who may be socially isolated, newly arrived, or adjusting to life in Wales
The PLTP is tailored to support children and young people who may have experienced disruption, isolation, or barriers to integration.
Why is the project needed?
The Play, Learn and Thrive Project was established in 2025, building on the success and learning from the previous Children and Young Persons Project (funded by BBC Children in Need). It was created to promote the inclusion and wellbeing of refugee and asylum‑seeking children and young people within mainstream services and community settings.
Many of the children supported by the project face challenges such as:
Disrupted or interrupted schooling
Living in temporary or unsuitable accommodation
Navigating the complexities of the asylum system
Limited community connections and reduced support networks
Relocating to unfamiliar environments
The PLTP provides a regular, friendly, and supportive space where children can socialise, learn, and participate in positive experiences. The aim is to promote emotional wellbeing, boost confidence, and help children feel happier and more settled in their new communities.
Feedback
We really value the feedback we receive. Here are a few anonymous comments about the difference our work is making.
I like to take part in board games. I've found new friends. We've exchanged our phone numbers. It was for me hard to find friends in school. I'm happy that I got new friends now.
PLTP Service User
The DPIA's winter break program provided my child and me with a wealth of positive experiences. The well-thought-out activities offered a great way to diversify our routine and socialise with friends in a festive setting. Although Ukrainian children are integrating well into the friendly Welsh community, the chance to maintain their own cultural identity through peer connection is invaluable. My sincere thanks for the support and the professional organization of every event.
PLTP Parent
Great opportunity for children to participate and communicate.
PLTP Parent
You can't even imagine how much this project is needed for our children, who stay at home and feel very lonely here. They need a place where they can meet each other, particularly other children who feel just as lonely, and play and grow together.
PLTP Parent
We like playing board games with our peers here. It may seem like we're grown-ups and can do it independently, but we still need someone to bring us together.
PLTP Service User
How can I join the project?
The PLTP team produces a monthly activity programme for project members. Holiday trips, outings, and special sessions are advertised directly within the group.
To join the project, find out more, or receive details of upcoming activities, please complete sign-up form.
