The unique Manchester play centre with role-play towns where you 'pay what you can' so kids can have fun

A Manchester play centre which offered people the chance to ‘pay what you can’ to aid with the Cost of Living crisis has made the price promise permanent. 

The Hideaway, in Partington Shopping Centre, Trafford, initially made the move in January - with general entry, parenting groups, courses, one-to-one support and even food free of charge for anyone struggling.  Now they’ve announced ‘pay what you can’ is here to stay. 

The large early years-focused educational play space includes role-play towns, a creative zone, a play frame and bouncy castle, a baby play zone and a sensory room that’s open to all through the week. 

A project from the Hidden Treasure Trust, it also has a programme of family support, courses and groups and even work in local schools to help struggling parents. 

The Hideaway also hosts the Hope food pantry and community café, providing free or affordable food and essentials each week for all Trafford residents who need a helping hand. The Hope Centre team at the Hideaway also help with an information and advice service, emergency essentials, pre-loved school uniform, digital support and even new toys for birthdays and Christmas. 

Hidden Treasure Trust CEO Ruth Lancey said “The past few years have been so difficult for many people in our community. Some of the daily stories we hear are truly heartbreaking, with parents struggling to feed their children or power their homes, let alone visit a play centre. 

“Being in a position to make an immediate difference – topping up the energy, providing food and seeing the children play is incredibly humbling and we’re so grateful to all who support our work, choose to visit us and help us to change and even save lives.”