Play plan aims to ensure all children have access to activities

THE Cabinet of Bridgend County Borough Council has approved the Play Sufficiency Action Plan for 2022-2024.

The plan aims to secure optimum play opportunities for children and young people in a broad range of activities across the county borough.

As part of Welsh Government’s anti-poverty agenda, the council has a Play Sufficiency Duty.

This recognises the importance of play to wellbeing and how children and young people can be negatively affected by a ‘poverty of experience’, which includes a lack of play.

In this context, ‘play’ refers to a variety of activities including sport, recreation, culture, as well as youth work.

Following an assessment, the collated data has informed the action plan for 2022-2024.

The plan focuses on identifying challenges and reducing any disadvantages that children or young people may experience in accessing quality play opportunities.

Whilst there is a need to ensure equality in play provision for those living with disabilities, diverse or additional needs, the assessment has highlighted how the wellbeing of many young people has been adversely affected by the pandemic – a challenge the Play Sufficiency Action Plan aims to assist in addressing.

To become more accessible and inclusive, play opportunities may have to be reconsidered or designed differently, as well as shaped by the contribution of young people, partner organisations and communities – a ‘one council’ approach engaging with everyone, to rebuild local opportunities for play.

Councillor Rhys Goode, Cabinet Member for Wellbeing and Future Generations, said: “After the limitations that the pandemic placed on all our children and young people, opportunities for play are vital to rebuilding wellbeing and confidence.

“Having access to quality places and spaces, as well as a diverse range of activities and opportunities, is paramount to the physical, mental and emotional health of our young people.

“The council has a crucial role in highlighting the value of play opportunities to its partners and communities, so that we can continue to work together in improving the lives and wellbeing of our future generations.”