Roots to Wellbeing - Skate & Elevate

Skate & Elevate is a trauma-informed, all‑inclusive community initiative that uses roller skating as a tool for healing, joy and social connection. Guided skating, emotional wellbeing activities and nature‑connected practices will turn public spaces into safe, welcoming “sanctuaries” where participants can move, play and connect. Facilitators focus on dignity, care and inclusion so that people of different ages and backgrounds can build confidence and resilience together.

What will the Kao SEED Fund support?

The project will deliver twice‑monthly, movement‑based sessions over three months in Harlow, in partnership with Roots to Wellbeing CIC. Funding will pay for modular eco‑conscious flooring to create safe skate zones, plus protective gear, sensory aids and onboarding materials tailored for children and young people with SEND.

It will also support facilitator honorariums for trauma‑informed practitioners and youth mentors, branded merchandise to boost visibility and emotional safety, and venue planning and supplier outreach aligned with the project’s values.

Who is the project helping support?

The project aims to support around 150 local residents aged 9 and over, including children and young people with SEND and disabilities, single parents, survivors and intergenerational families. Participants will benefit from safe, modular skate areas, trauma‑informed facilitation and rituals that build confidence, emotional safety and community connection. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to take part or observe, creating a welcoming family environment.

Impact of the project

The project will increase community connection, confidence and access to joyful movement, particularly for young people, single parents and those affected by trauma or displacement. Success will be evident when participants return regularly, bring friends or family and donation drives and outreach inspire local giving. Impact will be tracked through attendance, baseline and follow‑up surveys on wellbeing and inclusion, tailored feedback for SEND participants, case stories and facilitator reflections. Visible joy, stronger intergenerational bonds and more welcoming public spaces will signal meaningful, lasting change.

Find out more:

https://www.facebook.com/rootstowellbeing