Children’s charity Charlie House has totalled up the generosity of kind-hearted Aberdonians who supported their family-friendly event held in the city centre at the beginning of August.
More than 5,000 children and families enjoyed the Big Bounce, four days of inflatable fun held in Union Terrace Gardens, helping to raise vital funds for Charlie House.
Commenting on the Big Bounce, Ollie Middleton, community and events manager, said: “On behalf of the children and families Charlie House supports, we’d like to say a great big thank you to everyone who joined at this year’s Big Bounce!
“You made every bounce count and your kind generosity has raised just under £40,000 which will make a real difference to children living with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions, and their families, across the North-east of Scotland.
“Family time and play is an essential part of childhood. Before finding Charlie House, many of the children we support are told what they can’t do and miss out on many of the fun things that children should do.
“At Charlie House, we firmly believe in making the impossible possible and thanks to funds raised at the Big Bounce, children with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions can take part in activities their families never thought possible. From wheelchairs on a paddleboard to accessible surfing to cuddling goats on a farm visit, the children and families we support can experience memorable moments together.”
Ollie added: “These activities not only create memories to cherish, they also connect families facing similar experiences, helping them feel less isolated. Like the emotional and practical support we provide, all our activities are at no cost to the families we work with. We couldn’t do what we do without the support of our local community – thank you again to everyone who chose to help local children and their families thrive.”
Organised by Charlie House and powered by more than 150 volunteers, the Big Bounce 2025 was proudly sponsored by Aberdeen Inspired and The Point by Dandara Living.
Adrian Watson, chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired, said: “Charlie House’s Big Bounce really is one of the most joyous events in the Granite City’s calendar and Aberdeen Inspired is proud to be part of it.
“It is always a true delight to see Union Terrace Gardens come alive with the colourful bouncy castles and games, not to mention the huge smiles and shrieks of laughter from so many children having the time of their lives.
“Big Bounce creates a true carnival atmosphere in the gardens, bringing people flocking to the city centre, increasing footfall and boosting local businesses. The biggest boost, though, is the one which Charlie House will enjoy as the funds raised will help them carry out their vital work.”
For more information about Charlie House visit: https://www.charliehouse.org.uk