A Wonderful Day for Communities at Pound Arts

In February, Pound Arts welcomed families from across Corsham for a special Free Family Day. The day brought together live performance, creative activities and a nutritious shared meal, all designed to offer connection, joy and support for families.

The event was built around our values of community, opportunity, respect and care, and families were identified by and invited through Corsham’s primary schools. Demand was high, with schools reporting they could have filled their full allocation several times over. Although not every booked family could attend on the day, those who joined us enjoyed a warm, welcoming and uplifting experience.

A highlight for many was the live show, which opened up a new world for children who had never been able to attend a theatre performance before. One parent described the sense of belonging they felt sitting in the auditorium, surrounded by others sharing the same moment.

The meal offered families time to relax together over a nutritious lunch, with many returning for seconds. Conversations flowed easily, and the presence of the Community Family Navigator from Spurgeon’s family hub, helped families connect with local services and support.

The creative arts workshop was another joyful hub, with six activity areas designed to feel calm and inviting. Children immersed themselves in making, often returning after lunch to continue creating. Parents and carers shared stories, tips and encouragement, and one mother told us, “It’s the first time I’ve seen him so absorbed in an activity.”

Feedback gathered throughout the day was overwhelmingly positive. Families asked for more events like this, more creative opportunities, and more chances to see live performance. Many also shared wishes for wider community support — from childcare to SEN groups to accessible activities during school holidays.

We’re proud of what this day achieved: new friendships, relaxed conversations, creative confidence, full stomachs and a sense of belonging. As one facilitator put it, “People were fed and amazing memories were made: it was a fabulous day.”

We’re thinking about how to build on this success — from offering more places to strengthening partnerships and ensuring even more families can benefit next time.

The day was funded by Wiltshire Council, and we are deeply grateful for their support.

We welcomed more children over Easter, and looking forward to welcoming even more over the summer holidays when we offer free activities and food for children, as well as another free family show day, via the Fuel programme.