Three children - two girls and a boy smile as they paint pebbles at a Momentum event.

Led by our talented pebble artist volunteer, John, children were invited to paint a bumblebee, a ladybird, or let their imaginations run free with their own designs.

For nine years, John has been creating hand-painted pebbles for the families we support, with more than 900 designs completed so far. At the event, John shared some of his favourite designs, encouraging children to take inspiration from the characters, animals and sportspeople they love.

Using specialist acrylic paints, the children put great effort into their designs, enjoying the chance to chat and connect with other young people who are being supported by Momentum.

Talking about the event, Momentum volunteer, John, said: “It was a wonderful day! The children were fantastic, full of energy, and eager to get started with the painting straight away. They listened brilliantly and really embraced the activity. It was also lovely to see the relationships families have with Kerrie, their Family Support Worker.”

John continued: “More than 900 pebbles in, I still love painting them for Momentum – I’ve even set up my own studio. Hearing feedback from families about what the decorated pebbles mean to them keeps me motivated to keep volunteering and painting pebbles for years to come.”

Kimberley, from West Sussex, attended the pebble painting event with her daughters Lilly and Bella. She said: ““It was a fantastic day – the girls absolutely loved it! They were able to catch up with their friend, Theo, and Bella just couldn’t stop painting pebbles – I think she decorated seven in total! Her designs included a ladybird, a sunset, love hearts and a sunflower. Lilly created a bright bumblebee and a colourful rainbow. We are now deciding where to display all their wonderful masterpieces.”

Kimberley continued: “It was lovely to meet John; he’s painted pebbles for all three of my girls. It was great to catch up with our Kerrie, our Family Support Worker, and to see the other lovely families we have got to know since Bella’s diagnosis. The girls even got to enjoy the soft play afterwards. Thank you so much for inviting us along.”

A big thank you to Dorking Wanderers Football Club for kindly hosting this event for Momentum. If you are supported by Momentum, you can explore the different ways we can help here