Entrepreneur Matt launches crowdfunding campaign to build all-inclusive adventure play centre

By Jill Dando News

An entrepreneur has launched crowdfunding campaign to build all-inclusive adventure play centre

Family-run business Ogeg Ltd, founded by Matt Jeffery, has launched a crowdfunding campaign aimed at raising £65,000 to build an all-inclusive adventure play centre in the Swindon area.

Ogeg Ltd, named after the initials of Matt’s children, Ollie and Erin, is dedicated to creating a play centre that embodies key values of inclusivity, environmental sustainability, and educational exploration.

The Ogeg Adventure Play Centre will consist of an indoor and outdoor space, along with running specially designed group sessions for children with special needs or disabilities, and sessions with a targeted educational purpose such as the environment.  

Part of this idea is that it will also gives the parents a break and a chance to have a coffee without the worry. 

Indoors there will be a unique soft play area for all, an indoor area or room with sensory equipment, wheelchair friendly play equipment and access, along with a tuck shop for the all important snacks and possibly a café for the adults. 

Outdoors will have an adventure play area, park equipment such as swings and slides, wheelchair accessible equipment, along with a large sand pit, ride on toys and much more.

In addition to this we would love to be able to have a woodland area or at the very least some trees or an area of land where we can create a small nature area.

We also would like to create a growing area such as a greenhouse, veg patch or poly-tunnel where the children can plant and grow seeds, trees, vegetables etc with us. We've already started growing at home...

With more than 40 years of combined experience in early years teaching, the team at Ogeg Ltd are well-equipped to deliver an exceptional play experience that goes beyond traditional playgrounds.

The Ogeg Adventure Play Centre aims to stand out with its commitment to inclusivity, and will cater to all children, regardless of abilities. They plan to have a large environmental focus, emphasising sustainability and care for the environment while encouraging children to explore, play, and learn through adventure.

Matt’s vision for the adventure play is that it will offer a variety of amenities tailored to entertain and cater to every guest. Inside, visitors can explore a distinctive soft play zone, equipped with sensory tools and wheelchair-accessible play structures.

Outside, adventures await with play equipment suitable for all, including those with mobility needs.

Having visited numerous play centres in the local area, Matt and his family noticed a significant lack of inclusive facilities that were inaccessible or unaccommodating for wheelchair users or children with other disabilities. He aims to change this by creating a space where all children and their families feel welcome and supported.

"We are incredibly passionate about this project because we firmly believe that every child, regardless of their abilities, deserves a place where they can play, learn, and explore in a safe and welcoming environment," said Matt Jeffery, founder of Ogeg. 

The funds raised through the crowdfunding campaign will be allocated to securing a suitable location, covering planning and initial build expenses, purchasing materials and equipment for both indoor and outdoor areas. This includes costs such as planning fees, refurbishment, car park suitability, website development, signage, marketing, and initial operational expenses.

Ogeg Ltd is committed to giving back to the community, initially by donating 5 per cent of all profits to charities focused on children and the environment. The team also plans to volunteer in local projects, such as litter picks, tree plantings, and community events.

The adventure play centre was inspired by the children's book Adventures with Ollie, the Lost Hat, written by Matt two years ago.

The book, based on an adventure with their son, Ollie, sparked the dream of creating a place where all children can embark on their own adventures.

Contributions will help bring this dream to life, benefiting the community and creating a standout play centre in the South West. Every donation counts, and there are rewards for contributors, along with the satisfaction of supporting a meaningful project.

To support this project with a donation or for more information, please visit https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/ogeg-adventure-play-new-in-swindon.