SK8PZ LOVE IT CIC

SK8PZ LOVE IT CIC  

We are a group brought together by our love of roller skating!  

After the covid pandemic of 2020-2021, we noticed a real interest in roller skating in the Penzance area. Our Facebook group “SK8PZ” grew quickly in numbers to more than 500 members, and we see many of our gang at our weekly practice and jam sessions, as well as our popular Friday night roller disco.  

We welcome quads, inlines, skateboards and scooters, and our any-age, family-friendly events and sessions are alcohol and drug free.  

Who are we?  

Daniela  

“I moved to Penzance 10 years ago from Germany and felt sad there was little possibility to skate as I used to skate in the 90s, commuting through Hanover. I didn’t realise at the time, but this activity benefitted me on so many different levels. I never forgot the joy I gained from that. So, when Penzance Promenade was regenerated recently, I was right there to pick up my skates again! I am now 53 and enjoying it more than ever.”  

Chris 

“Roller skating changed my life! A big statement, I know... I’m not saying medication doesn’t work - I’ve been prescribed enough of it for various mental health diagnoses I’ve had through my life – but without a shadow of a doubt, this has and is the only thing that continues to transform my life in every area. I’m blessed to have found roller skating and the beautiful family that I share that experience with. Peace and love to one and all.” 

Donna 

“I never imagined how life changing putting a pair of roller skates on could actually be, but since putting on my skates two years ago the difference in my life and my personal confidence is incredible. Being a shy person in large groups, talking to new people wasn’t something I was comfortable with, but now - through the joy of skating – that has changed. The friendships I have made, and the challenging nature of the sport is so good for the mind, and the physical side is amazing for health and fitness. I now skate at least three times a week, which gets me out of the house, and I can go by myself or with my skate mates! It's just brilliant.” 

Why skating?  

As a counsellor and emotion coach, Daniela has seen how skating helps people to overcome trauma, anxiety and loneliness through a pressure-free social activity. Skating facilitates neuroplasticity and reduces stress, which helps individuals to overcome adversity and maintain a positive mindset.  

“Starting skating is the best thing I ever did; it has improved my mental and physical health massively and give me a great sense of achievement and joy. Since creating this group, SK8PZ has opened up more possibilities, more skate time and some great friendships. I’m so grateful for what we have.” - Jessica Harbutt,  

We dream of Penzance Prom becoming the new Venice Beach; vibrant and alive!  

Daniela and Chris personally invested in 50 silent disco headphones and rechargeable lights to create a vibrant atmosphere. We put on Sunset Silent Disco skate parties on our prom over the summer of 2022, and these became memorable events that were more than well received - not only by skaters but those that stopped and watched. Importantly, we received the backing of our local council too. When winter came around, we moved this weekly event to Mounts Bay Dome, so skaters can get their weekly disco fix rain or shine. 

We are focused on supporting low-income families and helping people to overcome social anxiety and loneliness. This project has also already proven to be beneficial to people that are on journeys of recovery as it provides alternatives to clubs and pubs. You get the music and the community, but not the pressure to use alcohol and drugs to experience pleasure. Roller skating is fun and the by-product of this fun is that it is good for body, mind and soul.   

“Such a welcoming and supportive group. We look forward to our sessions each week. It has helped me to get back exercising and learn a new skill. It has also helped my youngest child to build his self confidence and meet new friends. Cannot rate this team highly enough.” - Charley Hocking, SK8PZ member/user 

“My two girls absolutely love the skate sessions. It’s such a warm and welcoming space where everyone is respected, young and old, newbie or pro. They’ve gained in confidence, not only in skating but in meeting new people. We home educate and it’s one of the fantastic groups locally we attend. Fab exercise for the body and mind!” - Neacy Smith, SK8PZ member/user 

The future!  

We have so far used any money made from our sessions to cover staff/volunteer training and onboarding costs (first aid, safeguarding, DBS checks, instructor licenses, etc.), equipment, and venue hire. But we know we can do so much more.  

We are now planning to extend our sessions and upskill our already experienced team of instructors and stewards. We want to work with other CICs, schools and businesses in the area, and reach out to neighbouring towns to share our vision and journey. So, with any funds raised through this Crowdfunder we plan to:  

Build on our existing equipment hire – We already have a store of skates and safety equipment, but as our sessions grow so too will the need for hireable equipment.  

If you can’t afford a pair of skates, no problem – we'll have you covered. If you’re not sure if you want to commit to buying what can be a pricey piece of sports equipment – don’t worry; try out some of our skates before you commit. If you want your child to take part but don’t have the equipment – we’re here for you. We know that sports can be an expensive hobby, and that’s why we want to make our sessions as accessible as possible. Funds will be used to expand and maintain our skate hire facilities.  

Extend our session offerings – We have already seen the success of our Monday and Friday night sessions, and how popular they are with families. One of the greatest joys of running these sessions is seeing the improvement of our skaters, and the enthusiasm that our new skaters bring once they start to get into their stride and realise YES, I can do this! So, we want to offer more.  

For adults, we want to offer spaces for tuition and development of different styles. Dance skating and roller fitness are areas we want to branch into, and we know there is appetite for this amongst our users.  

For kids, we want to extend the sessions we have already started to trial. This means more holiday clubs and more afterschool sessions.  

Any funding raised will go towards:  

• Additional training for our instructors  
• Suitable venue hire for smaller sessions, group sessions and kids’ sessions (afterschool clubs and holiday clubs)