Waterloo Foundation backs continuation of First 1,000 Days early years programme
The Pembrokeshire Coast Charitable Trust is pleased to announce new support from The Waterloo Foundation, enabling the First 1,000 Days early years outdoor play programme, delivered by the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, to continue running up to the summer of 2026 while longer term funding is secured.
The programme provides structured outdoor play sessions for very young children and their parents or carers, with a particular focus on supporting families navigating neurodevelopmental differences. Since piloting the initiative in 2022, families have consistently described the sessions as transformative, offering a safe and sensory‑appropriate environment where children can explore, regulate and learn at their own pace.
This support from The Waterloo Foundation ensures the programme can continue uninterrupted during a period of funding uncertainty. It allows the team to maintain weekly inclusive outdoor sessions, reach families in rural communities, and continue offering targeted provision for children additional needs.
Parents regularly tell us how much the programme has improved their confidence, reduced isolation and helped them enjoy time outdoors with their children. Many report meaningful developmental changes, including improved sleep, increased vocabulary and better emotional regulation.
Kelly Davies, Outdoor Play Worker for the programme, said: “We see every week how much these sessions mean to families. Children who struggle in busy indoor environments are able to relax in the outdoors. Parents tell us they feel less isolated and more confident, and it’s a privilege to support them during such an important stage of their child’s development.”
Abi Marriott, Funding Officer at the Pembrokeshire Coast Charitable Trust, added: “We are incredibly grateful to The Waterloo Foundation for enabling this vital work to continue. Their support gives families stability at a time when demand is growing and funding is uncertain. We are working hard to secure longer‑term investment, and this contribution ensures we can keep delivering the specialist support that so many families rely on.”
Throughout 2026, the Trust will continue gathering detailed feedback from parents and carers to strengthen the evidence base for the programme and support future funding applications. This includes insights into developmental progress, family wellbeing and the wider benefits of inclusive outdoor play.
The Pembrokeshire Coast Charitable Trust remains committed to ensuring that every child, regardless of need, ability or postcode has the opportunity to thrive in nature during their earliest years.