Target reached!
The first quote we have for creating a place to play is £20,000. We hope we won't ...
The Lewes Pétanque Club
Lewes, East Sussex, United Kingdom
Aim
Lewes Pétanque Club wants to combat loneliness by building an accessible playing area for a group that’s inclusive and welcoming to all.
Why?
No one wants to feel alone.
But in our increasingly online and fast-paced world, there can seem fewer opportunities to connect with the local community.
This can be especially true if you’re new to an area, have been parted from a close friend or family, had a change in circumstances, or feel as if – whatever the reason – you just don’t belong.
Feeling lonely and disconnected is awful for our mental health.
But how do we get to meet and know new people? How do we take that first step? Lewes is thriving with great activities and sports, but many of us feel we do not have the fitness, skill, ability, confidence or disposable income to take part. Getting involved in something new can feel intimidating.
The game
Which is where pétanque comes in.
It’s a brilliantly inclusive game, providing a gentle focus and shared aim with no need for expensive kits, specific skills or particular abilities. Anyone can play! It’s simple to learn, and it’s really fun.
The mission
Our mission is to provide a welcoming and accessible space where people can come together regardless of age, background, or physical or mental differences – where they can have a good time focusing on playing a historic game whilst meeting people, making friends and spending time outside. And who knows, it may even lead to good-hearted competition with other local teams.
First steps and your help
But we need to start somewhere, and that’s with a place to play.
A possible site has been deemed suitable by Lewes District Council (thank you, LDC!), but we need funding. If we can raise enough money, they will support us to build a playing area.
The suggested site is in the centre of Lewes: it’s accessible, it’s flat, it has parking next to it, and it’s in a gorgeous spot. We couldn’t ask for more … except your generosity and kindness.
Because to start our club – to combat loneliness, to promote togetherness, and to have fun as a community – we need you.
So if you can spare anything at all, please help us out. Because big things can come from small donations.
East Sussex Community Wellbeing Fund has provided £500 of match funding
This project successfully funded on 4th December 2022