MSP Rona Mackay and SNP Council Group Leader Gordan Low visited Bishopbriggs social enterprise Babes in the Wood and praised it for undertaking valuable work in the community.
Babes in the Wood Bishopbriggs was founded by Heather Royan in 2014 in response to local need. As a parent herself, Heather recognised the merit in having a specialist service for the recycling of children’s toys, clothing & equipment. In 2018 Heather formed a business partnership with Linda Barrack and together they launched a further enterprise, Babes in the Wood Stirling.
Babes in the Wood was founded to reduce the impact of landfill waste on the environment, to alleviate the effects of poverty on children from birth to 16 years and to offer a friendly community shop where parents and carers can source low cost children’s items.
Ms Mackay said: “This amazing non-profit is a much needed organisation that helps vulnerable families in East Dunbartonshire. Health visitors, social workers, family support workers and Women’s Aid can refer families. Babes in the Woods then create packs full of children’s toys, clothing and equipment which respond specifically to the individual needs of the families referred to them.
“If anyone has any items to donate for their packs that they would like to donate, they would be much appreciated, especially in the run up to Christmas. My office will be arranging a collection between now and Christmas for Babes in the Woods Bishopbriggs. If you would like to donate contact my office on 0141 776 1561 or email rona.mackay.msp@parliament.scot.
Councillor Low added, “Babes in the Woods is an excellent services for East Dunbartonshire. As well as assisting vulnerable families they also support small businesses and local parents who choose to visit or reserve a place in their subsidised community classes. Classes include baby massage, infant reflexology and baby yoga.”
Heather Royan added, “We are grateful of the support of local parents who visit us to buy from our community shop and to those who bring us donations of their unwanted children’s toys, clothing & equipment. Without their continued support & generosity we would be unable to respond to appeals to assist local families.”