A community hub launched by Barnardo’s in south London is now hoping to open four days a week to meet demand from local families.

The Triangle at Crystal Palace was officially opened on Saturday by Floella Benjamin, a vice-president of the children’s charity, who praised the positive impact the service is having in the area.

It features a large soft play area, activities for children and families, a Barnardo’s shop stocked with high quality children’s toys and clothes, a café and events and meeting space for hire.

The centre in Coxwell Road is open for morning and afternoon stay and play sessions three days a week on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Five more volunteers are needed to extend play sessions to Fridays.

All income generated at the Triangle goes towards Barnardo’s work supporting the most vulnerable children and young people in the area.

Floella Benjamin declares The Triangle at Crystal Palace open

Since its soft launch at the start of August, The Triangle has welcomed more than 700 children through its doors. Its team manager, play leader and administrator were all recruited from the neighbourhood along with a growing pool of volunteers.

Baroness Benjamin, who lives close to the area, said: “I know from experience how vital it is for families in south London to feel connected to their community, and to have high quality services close at hand.

“Local families have been flocking to The Triangle in great numbers and their reaction has been overwhelmingly positive. It’s clear to me that Barnardo’s has already set down strong roots in Crystal Palace, and I look forward to seeing those roots continue to grow and flourish as this service expands and develops.”

Lynn Gradwell, Director of Barnardo’s in London, said: “The Triangle is off to a great start and is a fantastic example of a service that’s run in the community, for the community, by the community. I want to thank everyone who has played a part in its early success.

“We plan to build on these strong foundations by responding to the needs of local families, who have asked us to extend our opening times to Fridays. If you would like to help us do that, please put yourself forward and volunteer.”

• To talk about offering your time at The Triangle email triangle@barnardos.org.uk or call 020 8771 0907

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