Spotlight on: PATA
This week is Small Charity Week (22–29 June 2026) and we’re taking the opportunity to shine a light on the amazing work being done by some of Gloucestershire’s small charities.
Today we’re taking a look at PATA (https://www.pataglos.org.uk/)
Tell us a bit about PATA
PATA is a membership charity that supports the Early Years & Play Sector across Gloucestershire to provide high quality, nurturing environments where children can thrive. Our child centered mission champions high quality play, learning and care that gives all children and young people the strong foundations they need to succeed in life. Our members include Early Years and Wrap-around settings across the county and beyond.
How does your organisation contribute to the local community?
Tailoring our offer to the needs of the sector and wider community, we strengthen Early Years provision through practical support, networking and training. We deliver high quality Early Education at our own settings and share experience and best practice with our members. We advocate for the sector and champion the Early Years workforce. The majority of our members are community, committee run settings - run by and for their local communities.
Any recent successes that we should know about?
A real highlight was our AGM and Awards Evening which brought PATA members together to celebrate the dedication and achievements of the sector within Gloucestershire. It was a powerful reminder of the expertise, resilience and dedication that exists across our member settings and reinforced the importance of championing those that work within the sector at every opportunity.
What are your main challenges at present?
The sector is facing pressure from a recruitment crisis and increasing costs. We are addressing this by investing in training, supporting recruitment and retention, and building strong partnerships to share expertise and resources.
How can the wider community help?
The community can champion the importance of Early Years Education, support local Early Years Providers and help us raise awareness of the vital role practitioners play. Become a member! Engage with us; share our resources and encourage new people to join the sector. We welcome help from volunteers, raffle prize donations and any fundraising support the community is able to provide. If you have a local Early Years Setting that is a charity, why not consider joining them as a trustee?
What are your plans for the future?
We would like to broaden our reach so that our membership reflects the full diversity of the communities in Gloucestershire. The includes engaging more providers from different backgrounds, expanding support for underrepresented groups and creating new ways for a wider range of voices to shape our work.
You can find out more about PATA by visiting their website (https://www.pataglos.org.uk/) or e-mailing info@pataglos.org.uk
If you’d like to make a donation, visit https://pataglos.org.uk/donations