It’s just a meeting. I can see why some may come that conclusion. But, when the Adventure Playground Network meet later today, it as a show of resilience from a sector that has been transforming communities for decades.
Anyone who has worked or spent time on an adventure playground will know that these places are much more than amphitheatres for locomotor play. As detailed Professor Ben Highmore and Dr Mike Wragg’s recent briefing, children are co-producers of the space. This essential “self-build” ethos empowering children and young people to create ownership of their community whilst also fostering creativity and independence.
Over the past 15 years, the playwork sector has faced unprecedented funding cuts and dwindling national support in England – a context explored in “Encouraging State of Playwork in the UK”. Though these reductions have been the death knell for many community projects, adventure playgrounds have emerged as remarkable examples of resilience. Their mixed funding models and reliance on resourceful “competent social actors” have allowed them to not only survive but, in some cases, thrive.
Today’s meeting is a testament to the commitment of those who believe that the benefits of free, child-led play far outweigh the short-sighted risks of a hyper risk-averse society.
The creation of the Adventure Playground Network for Great Britain and Northern Ireland stands as a powerful response to the challenges posed by diminishing local government budgets, rising insurance costs, and political disinvestment in Westminster. Born out of chance encounters and a shared vision, the Network is a democratic, non-hierarchical platform where ideas are exchanged and best practices disseminated.
Today, discussions build on previous meetings – from tackling insurance premium challenges to exploring evidence-based policy solutions – to further enhance the sustainability of these invaluable community assets.
In today’s session – Chaired by London Play’s Fiona Sutherland – our agenda includes:
- Play ‘n’ Politics:
What are your stories of political support (or not) for play where you are? It could be interactions with your local Community/Parish Councils, County Councils and Councillors, Members of Westminster (MPs), Holyrood (MSPs), Senedd (MSs) and Stormont Parliaments, or even Cabinet Ministers(!). - It All Starts With Play:
News and views on the launch of Play England’s new 10-year strategy and a new All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Play! - Play Commission:
Reflections on the adventure playgrounds round-table plus an update on submissions - International Day of Play:
Plans, campaigns and ideas!
PLUS, anything else attendees wish to raise. To join in, simply click the link below:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82370495552?pwd=bek361Mglg6fYCI1qd8gobHqfGtxAG.1
Meeting ID: 823 7049 5552
Passcode: 711187
A Call to Action
Today’s gathering is more than a routine meeting – it is a celebration of the people who make play. Whether you are a seasoned playworker, an emerging community leader, or a passionate advocate for children’s rights, your contributions are warmly welcomed.
As we look to the future, The Playwork Foundation remains committed to fostering inclusive spaces, advocating for robust playwork practice and policy, and encouraging initiatives that empower children. Together, we will ensure that the spirit of adventure playgrounds continues to inspire change.
For more information on the Network visit our dedicated page playwork.foundation/apn or email apn@playwork.foundation.
The Playwork Foundation 