Message of hope for families and community shared by childcare provider in optimistic video

Staff from Growing Places, which has eight settings in Waterlooville, Fareham and Havant, joined forces via technology to sing and sign Lean on Me by Bill Withers.

Team members had planned on organising a flash mob dance this year but with the pandemic making it impossible, it was decided that they could unite on screen instead using mobile phones as a way to record and share their message.

With more than 7,500 views so far, staff at the childcare centres are hoping they can spread the message far and wide and maybe inspire other companies to do the same.

Jackie Warren, company director of Growing Places, said: ‘We want our families, team members and community to know we are here for them.

‘These are strange and difficult times, but together we can come through stronger and more connected.'

Colleague Emma Stock, who handles video and marketing at Growing Places, added: ‘Growing Places has always taken a great deal of pride in forging strong links within the local community, and it’s vital we maintain these connections during such difficult times.

‘Our company mantra has always been “Creating the future by inspiring the moment” and right now these words are more important than ever.’

For more information about Growing Places and what they have been up to, visit growingplaces.org.uk or facebook.com/growing.places.media.