Nikki’s Little Play Café in Dorchester receives £80,000 funding boost

A new play cafe in Dorchester, Dorset, aimed at children with sensory needs has been able to be fitted out, thanks to an £80,000 funding package from SWIG Finance.

Nikki’s Little Play Café, on Pope Street, has been a hit with children and parents since opening in January this year. It has also meant three new jobs for local people.

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Families can enjoy soft play, host birthday parties and attend classes.

Husband and wife Russell and Nikki Skinner are advocates for supporting children with special needs and they were referred to SWIG Finance by Colin Chastey at credit broker EFT Finance Ltd.

Business owner Russell said: "The funding we have received has been vital in enabling us to fit out the new premises, and ultimately helped us to open our doors to the public. Our business manager, Nicki, was supportive throughout the process."

SWIG’s business manager Nicki Kimberley, added: "Nikki is a passionate advocate for neurodiverse children and has a wealth of experience in the childcare sector.

"We were impressed with the way Nikki integrates her ethos throughout the business. From the design of the play space through to staff recruitment, Nikki ensures that all children’s needs will be catered for."

The funding package included a £30,000 loan from the British Business Bank’s South West Investment Fund and two loans totalling £50,000 from the Bank’s Start Up Loans programme - both via SWIG Finance.

SWIG Finance provides loans and support to help smaller businesses in the south and west country to grow.

Operated by the British Business Bank, the South West Investment Fund provides a mix of debt and equity funding. It offers a range of commercial finance options with smaller loans from £25,000 to £100,000, debt finance from £100,000 to £2m and equity investment.