Steps for Swings: Turning Every Step into Opportunity
In October 2025, Jo Blunden travelled to Kenya with The Boo Charity after first being introduced to our work at the Boo Ball in November 2024. Inspired by the impact of our projects, she wanted to see it for herself.
What she experienced stayed with her.
Across the country, Jo was struck by the contrast of love, joy and resilience alongside real hardship. But one moment, in particular, became impossible to forget.
At Busire, a rural primary school, the bell rang for break time. Children ran outside, excited to play, but the playground told a different story. Rusted slides, broken structures and unsafe equipment meant playtime was far from carefree.
Then Jo saw something she hasn’t been able to shake since.
A young child climbed onto what used to be a swing. There was no seat, just a metal frame. Instead, he held onto the bar and swung his body back and forth using his hands.
That moment became the inspiration for Steps for Swings.
The Challenge
From 1st to 7th June 2026, Jo will be walking from Cheltenham to Bournemouth (yes, every single step!) to raise funds for new playground equipment at two early childhood schools: Busire ECD and Nyamwanga ECD.
Her goal is simple but powerful: to replace unsafe, broken play equipment with safe, durable spaces where children can play, learn and grow.
Why It Matters
Play should not be a luxury, it’s essential. Safe playground equipment supports:
Physical development and coordination
Confidence and independence
Social skills and interaction
At these rural schools, where funding is limited, even basic play equipment is out of reach. Yet children still play - adapting, improvising and making the best of what they have.
This project is about giving them what every child deserves: a safe space to play, develop and simply be children.
The Goal
Jo is aiming to raise £4,000 to install two new playsets, complete with fencing to ensure safety and longevity.
As with all Boo Charity projects, 100% of funds raised will go directly to the project, ensuring real, tangible impact.
Jo’s Words
“What should have been a moment of pure joy was hard to watch… the slides were rusted and unsafe, and one child was swinging without a seat, just holding onto the frame. That image has stayed with me ever since.”
“Something as simple as a playground - something we take for granted - is a luxury elsewhere. I hope to turn steps into swings and give these children the safe, joyful play spaces they deserve.”
How You Can Support
We’re incredibly proud of Jo for taking on this challenge.
You can support her journey and help make this project a reality by donating here.
You can also follow Steps for Swings on social media to track Jo’s journey as she prepares for the challenge.