Spark is more than a service provider – it is a community hub.
Lichfield Radio was delighted to attend an Open Day at Spark on Wednesday.
The charity, based in the heart of Burntwood, has become a vital lifeline for families, children, and the wider community.
Since its founding in 2015, by local residents who wanted to create a supportive environment for families during the crucial early years of childhood, Spark has grown from a grassroots idea into a thriving community hub.
Its aim is simple: to provide a place where people can access help, build friendships and feel part of a stronger community.
Today, Spark offers services that support over 1,600 families each year. The charity focuses particularly on families with pre-school-aged children, recognising how important early development and parental support are to long-term wellbeing.
At its core, Spark provides a wide range of practical and emotional support. Its activities include:
- Baby and toddler groups
- Parenting workshops and family support sessions
- Wellbeing and mental health support
- Social groups for dads, grandparents, and young parents
- Training and volunteering opportunities
These services are designed to be inclusive and accessible, with many offered for free, or at low cost.
Facilities at the centre include playrooms, an open air courtyard and a garden where children are encouraged to interact with nature.
One of Spark’s standout initiatives is its Baby & Children’s Bank, which provides essential items – such as clothing, toys and equipment – to families in need. Alongside this, the charity runs a community fridge to help address food insecurity – both vital responses to the rising cost of living.
A key strength of Spark is its strong volunteer network. Dozens of volunteers contribute hundreds of hours each week, helping to run activities, support families and maintain the centre. Volunteering at Spark is not just about giving back – it also provides opportunities for individuals to build skills, gain confidence, and even return to employment. This dual benefit reflects the charity’s broader mission of empowering people as well as supporting them.
Spark is more than a service provider – it is a community hub. Its welcoming environment encourages social interaction and mutual support, helping to reduce isolation and strengthen local relationships. Whether it’s a parent attending a baby group, a volunteer gaining new skills or a family accessing essential supplies, Spark plays a central role in everyday life for many residents.
As it continues to grow, Spark remains focused on its founding mission: helping families “learn, play, grow, be healthy – and be happy”.
With a combination of practical support, community spirit and dedicated volunteers, the charity stands as a powerful example of how local initiatives can create lasting positive change.