Meet Ben Higgins, Founder of Sanctuary Play Cafe

Creating spaces where people feel welcome, connected and supported is at the heart of both Sanctuary Play Café and Community RunFest Rayleigh.

Founded by local parents Ben and his family, Sanctuary Play Café was created to give families a place to play, relax and spend quality time together. We recently caught up with Ben Higgins, Owner and Founder of Sanctuary Play Café, to discuss community, wellbeing and why creating opportunities for people to come together is so important.

Tell us about your business

Sanctuary Play Cafe is a family-run business created by locals who have lived in Rayleigh our entire lives.

As parents ourselves, we recognised that Rayleigh was missing a space where young children could play safely while parents could relax and connect. We set out to create a calm, welcoming environment that brings families together.

Alongside our play area and cafe, we host events and support groups, making Sanctuary more than just a cafe, it’s a true community hub for local families.

Why are you passionate about fitness?

Running and fitness are essential for both physical health and mental wellbeing. As a business owner and parent, life can be busy and demanding, so staying active helps me reset, stay focused, and maintain balance.

Running is also incredibly accessible; it brings people together regardless of background or ability. I’m passionate about encouraging others to find movement they enjoy, because even small steps can have a big impact on confidence, energy, and overall happiness.

How do you feel Community RunFest will benefit everybody?

Community RunFest is a fantastic way to bring people together in a positive and inclusive environment. It encourages movement, connection, and a shared sense of achievement, whether someone is an experienced runner or just starting out.

Events like this strengthen community spirit, support local businesses, and promote healthier lifestyles. For families, it’s also a great opportunity to model active habits for children. Overall, it creates a welcoming space where everyone can feel involved, inspired, and supported.