Jolly Jumpers Playzone, a popular soft play centre in Bridgwater, Somerset, is facing a challenging summer as soaring costs threaten its survival. This family-run venue, operated by the Welham family for over a decade, has been a cherished community hub for thousands of families celebrating milestones like birthdays and first steps.
Manager Emily Welham, 25, who has been part of the team since age 14, explained the centre’s current struggles: “We’ve seen an overwhelming rise in expenses—staff wages, utilities, business rates, insurance, and essential maintenance have all increased significantly.” Despite busy winters, summer months bring a noticeable drop in visitor numbers, making it difficult to cover these soaring overheads.
Emily highlighted a common misconception about summer footfall: “Many assume we’re busiest during the holidays, but the six-week summer period is actually very quiet. Families often prefer beaches, parks, or countryside walks during hot days, limiting visits to indoor play areas.” Additionally, the ongoing cost-of-living crisis has made families more cautious about leisure spending.
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In response, Jolly Jumpers has launched a GoFundMe campaign aiming to raise £3,500 to cover essential operational costs. So far, they have received £445 from 23 generous donors. The appeal emphasizes that every contribution, big or small, helps maintain a safe, warm, and welcoming space for children to play freely.
“Jolly Jumpers isn’t just a business—it’s a community space full of memories,” Emily said. “We’ve cut costs and worked tirelessly to stay open, but we need help to keep going. We believe our playzone is worth fighting for.”
Open seven days a week, Jolly Jumpers remains a vital part of Bridgwater’s family life, hoping for the community’s support during this difficult period.