Some days stay with you long after they are over. The family trip to Crealy with Mixed Families Together was one of those days.
As a family, we wouldn’t normally be able to visit Crealy because of the cost, and also because of going alone, so being invited as part of a group was a real gift. But the most valuable part of the day wasn’t the rides or the attractions. It was the feeling of sharing the experience with other families.
My 13-year-old son, who would usually spend much of the day on his iPad, barely stopped moving. He laughed, explored, and came home full of stories instead of screen time. My daughter loved every moment too. As a parent, there is something so special about watching your children simply enjoy being children.
One of my favourite memories wasn’t on a ride at all. It was sitting together for the picnic, sharing food and conversations while the children played happily around us.
At one point, a lady heard me speaking Arabic and came over to introduce herself. She was from Lebanon, and what started as a simple hello turned into a heartfelt conversation about life in the diaspora, the meaning of home, and the experiences we share as migrant women. There was something incredibly comforting about being able to speak my own language while also chatting with English parents and families from many different backgrounds. Looking around, I saw children from all over the world laughing and playing together without thinking about where they came from. It was a beautiful reminder that, while our journeys may be different, connection is something we all long for, and sometimes it begins with nothing more than a shared language, a smile, or a picnic blanket.
As someone who works in community building, I see every day how difficult loneliness and isolation can be for families. Opportunities like this quietly break down those barriers. They create friendships, strengthen confidence, and help people feel recognised, included, and part of their community. They give children happy memories while helping parents build connections that often continue long after the day itself has ended.
A huge thank you to MFT for making this possible. These experiences are about so much more than a day out. They are an investment in stronger families, connected communities, and children who grow up seeing diversity as something joyful and natural. We need more opportunities like this, and I hope they continue to receive the support and funding that allows so many families to benefit. Sometimes, the greatest impact begins with simply bringing people together.
Maisaa – MFT community member
A day out at a theme park is never just about the rides — it’s about belonging, especially for our mixed‑heritage community group where friendships grow so naturally.
The day began with Liza’s phenomenal organisation as she checked names and handed out wristbands — no small feat with more than seventy attendees. To avoid forming one enormous queue, families headed off to the rides that suited them best. The sunshine was glorious, making every water ride feel irresistible.
We gathered for lunch at a perfect shady spot by the lake, discovered by the wonderful JB. Sitting together under the trees, enjoying our picnics and chatting, felt blissful. The children quickly turned the area into their own adventure zone — running races, climbing trees, and playing chase. Claire and Liza made a generous dash to the shop and returned with cool drinks for everyone, a thoughtful treat that rounded off lunch beautifully.
Afterwards, it was back to the excitement, with more rides to conquer and more laughter to share.
Every child and adult left the park with tired feet and huge smiles. It truly was a special day — made even more meaningful by seeing familiar, joyful faces from our fabulous mixed‑heritage families throughout the park.
Eve – MFT committee member