Refurbished Playroom at Poole Refuge, Sam's Bright Space, is Officially Opened
Neil Duncan-Jordan, MP for Poole, has officially opened a newly refurbished children’s playroom at Poole Refuge, run by BCHA. The celebration also included moving speeches and poems from residents past and present, the BCHA domestic abuse team and the team at Bright Horizons.
The project was funded by the Bright Horizons Foundation for Children in memory of their colleague Sam Manuel, who sadly passed away three years ago. The playroom now stands as a lasting tribute to her and will provide a safe, welcoming space for children living at the Refuge after fleeing domestic abuse.
The opening took place on Starts at Home Day (29 August 2025), a national campaign by the NHF (National Housing Federation) celebrating the positive impact of supported housing. The campaign highlights the importance of funding and investment in safe, supportive accommodation for people in need.
“Today reminds us of the critical importance of supported housing. The Refuge in Poole is a place of safety, care and recovery and projects like this refurbished playroom show the transformative power of community and partnership working. I am proud to celebrate this with BCHA, Bright Horizons and everyone involved.”
BCHA Chief Executive, Lorraine Mealings, highlighted the wider importance:
“We've already seen the playroom full of children and laughter. Safe spaces like this playroom change lives, and we need to make sure services like ours continue to be properly funded through initiatives such as the 'Starts at Home' campaign.”
Since opening in 2004, Poole Refuge has provided accommodation and vital support for survivors of domestic abuse. The new playroom ensures children have a safe and therapeutic space to play, recover and feel like children again.
Emily Harris from Bright Horizons added:
“We are delighted to open this new Bright Space with BCHA. It is particularly special as it honours our dear colleague, Sam Manuel who sadly passed away in 2022. Sam was someone who gave back, and it is wonderful to do something so positive in her memory.”
Our Partners
