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Families, partners and councillors were invited last week to celebrate the incredible transformation at Oak Tree family hub in Mansfield, following a £150,000 funding investment from the Levelling Up Fund from central government, matched with funding from the county council.

Mansfield District Council and the county council worked together to secure the funding and propose the joint project, with family hubs being selected as a clear priority.

The celebratory event marked the official reopening of the hub after major improvement works. Previously known as Oak Tree Children’s Centre, the new site has now been revamped into a welcoming family hub, designed to help better meet the needs of local children age 0-18 years and their families.

The funding has been used to revitalise and improve the facilities, with a fantastic new outdoor area full of fun and exciting new equipment, including a climbing frame, slide, mud kitchen and garden. The garden is now more engaging for older children, as well as those under the age of 5, which was a priority for the renovations.

A ‘bug hotel’ has also been created to encourage learning through play. Local families are being encouraged to visit and enjoy the newly enhanced facilities.

Indoor areas of the hub have also had an impressive revamp, with a complete redecoration, a new heating system and new technology including mobile screens, supporting the delivery of educational and informative services that take place both virtually and in-person.

The work was completed by the county council’s Landscaping, Cleaning and Facilities Management team and Arc Partnership, which is a joint venture between Scape Group and the council.  

Local families who attended the event spoke highly of their experiences at Oak Tree family hub and the newly renovated space.

Alex, a parent, said: “Wow, I can’t believe how big the garden is now. There is so much do – it’s a lovely space”.

Councillor Rory Green, Cabinet Member for Children and Families at Nottinghamshire County Council, who also attended the event praised the hubs for the ‘important role’ they play in communities in Nottinghamshire. He said: 

“It’s fantastic to see so many families enjoying the wonderfully renovated site here in Mansfield and making the most of the services and activities available to them. The funding has allowed us to expand the services we offer, all under one roof. Family hubs are a fantastic way for families to access the support they need, when they need it. Oak Tree plays an important role in the local community, helping families to get easy access to a wide range of services all in one place. 

“It’s clear from speaking to parents today, just how much they value the help and services that are available and further highlights the positive difference family hubs are making to Nottinghamshire communities.”

Joint Portfolio Holder for Health, Wellbeing and Safer Communities at Mansfield District Council, Councillor Angie Jackson said: “We are delighted this family hub has been enhanced. 

“We know just how important it is for children to get the best start in life and this hub will provide an invaluable contribution to the quality of life and wellbeing of children in the Oak Tree area.”  

To learn more about the Family Hub Network and find your nearest hub, visit: https://www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/care/family-hub-networks