PEMBROKESHIRE Coast Charitable Trust has gained new support from The Waterloo Foundation, enabling the First 1,000 Days early years outdoor play programme to continue running up to the summer of 2026 while longer‑term funding is secured.

The Waterloo Foundation’s support ensures the programme can continue its weekly inclusive outdoor sessions, reaching families in rural communities, offering targeted provision for children additional needs.

The programme, delivered by the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, 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.

Throughout 2026, detailed feedback will be gathered 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.

Parents regularly report 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.

Abi Marriott, Funding Officer at the Pembrokeshire Coast Charitable Trust, said: “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.”

The 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.