The Lord Mayor of Leeds’ annual charity appeal marked a resounding success this year with its engaging theme, ‘One Day To Play’.
This innovative initiative aimed to raise funds for the Lord Mayor’s chosen charity, the Leeds Community Foundation, by inviting the community to participate in playful activities that not only bring joy but also foster a sense of unity and support for a great cause. Throughout the designated day, schools, universities, businesses, and individuals across Leeds were encouraged to alter their usual routines to include more play. This year, the Lord Mayor, Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung, focused on promoting play as a vital component of mental health and well-being, particularly for children and young people in the city.
The day was filled with vibrant activities. Lane End Primary and Blenheim Primary Schools were key participants, integrating extra playtime and creative tasks into their curriculum. At Lane End Primary, pupils donated for the privilege of wearing comfy clothes suitable for playful learning, and provided feedback on their experiences, which will be considered for enhancing play opportunities in their school environment.
Meanwhile, Blenheim Primary pupils tapped into their creative sides by writing and reciting poetry and poems about ‘One Day To Play’, which were showcased in a special assembly attended by the Lord Mayor.
The Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung said:
“Just One Day’ is a fantastic event raising much-needed funds for a local charity that does incredible work with community organisations throughout the city.
“We are thrilled to be working with Child Friendly Leeds this year to deliver the theme of ‘just one day to play’. Play is something that we have decided to prioritise because of its importance to the development of children and young people. Having the support of Child Friendly Leeds in ‘Just One Day’ and to have specially developed lesson plans and resources has enhanced the event and brought the whole Leeds community together.
“It’s been fabulous to watch the children playing and learning and the event has been a real success for all those who participated. Anyone can participate in ‘Just One Day’ at any time of year. I encourage everyone, adults, and children alike, to take some playtime, get involved and raise money for a fantastic charity.”
The playful spirit extended beyond school grounds. At Leeds Civic Hall, a unique collaboration between the Rapid Relief Team and the Leeds Community Foundation saw a free food event where attendees were encouraged to donate to the ‘Just One Day’ appeal instead of paying for their meals. This gesture of giving highlighted the community’s commitment to supporting local causes while enjoying a communal celebration.
Lane End Primary headteacher, Jane Hopwood said:
“Lane End Primary School believes in the power of learning through play. Our children loved meeting the Lord Mayor and have been inspired to be playful throughout the day. We’ve been problem solving, creating, and building outside in the sunshine at dinner time. Staff and children also explored how to improve play in school and across the city and hope to invite the Lord Mayor back so she can hear our ideas.”
The ‘Just One Day’ appeal not only brought a day of joy and creativity to Leeds but also demonstrated the powerful impact of community engagement in supporting vital local initiatives. The funds raised during the day will assist the Leeds Community Foundation in its ongoing efforts to improve the lives of residents and make Leeds a fairer and more inclusive city.
The success of this year’s event has set a positive precedent for future charity endeavors under the Lord Mayor’s patronage, ensuring that the spirit of giving and play continues to thrive in Leeds.
For more information on how to participate in ‘Just One Day’ or to make a donation, please visit www.leeds.gov.uk
