charge cable will not stay connected to mini ipad

If the charging cable won’t properly seat or easily fit into the charging port of the iPad, this might indicate that either dirt or lint is obstructing the plug, or the plug or charging socket have been damaged - in particular the retaining springs that hold the charging plug in place.

A damaged charging cable must be replaced - whereas a damaged charging port must be repaired.

If the problem is due to a visible obstruction, you may be able to remove it yourself*. With good light, using a sharpened wooden matchstick or plastic toothpick, very gently try to dislodge a visible the obstruction from the socket. Be careful to avoid damaging the delicate electrical contacts within the socket. Note that a USB-C socket has an obvious "tongue" within the socket.

(*) Removal of an obstruction is often best entrusted to the technicians at the Genius Bar of your local Apple Store or Apple Authorised Service Provider (AASP) - where the appropriate tools and expertise are available:

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

You might be best advised to visit the Genius Bar at your local Apple Store or Apple Authorised Service Provider (AASP) - where the technicians will be able to offer assistance:

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

Alternatively, you can seek assistance directly from Apple Support. You can contact the Support Team using the Support link at top-right or bottom-left of this page. You can also initiate and manage your support cases from Apple devices using the excellent Apple Support App. If not already installed, the App can be downloaded from the App Store:

https://apps.apple.com/app/apple-support/id1130498044