The Association of Play Industries has joined with other organisations in an open letter calling upon Local Authorities to put the wellbeing of children first and let them play. Despite Government guidance specifically permitting public playgrounds to remain open, many LAs are closing their play spaces.
“Outdoor play is vital for the physical and mental health of children and playground closures mean that many children, particularly those in the most deprived areas or without any outside space, are facing months effectively under house arrest,” says API Chair Mark Hardy. “The play industry, children’s charities and play experts are all united in highlighting the essential role that playgrounds have within communities. The risks to children of not playing outdoors far outweigh any risks posed by Covid-19 and we are urging LAs to keep playgrounds open or re-open them if they are closed.”
Notes to Editors
The Association of Play Industries (API) www.api-play.org is the lead trade body within the play sector and campaigns at the highest levels for policy recognition for play. Its members are leading manufacturers, installers, designers and distributors of both outdoor and indoor play equipment and safety surfacing. Founded in 1984, the API represents 85% of the play industry.
The API operates under the umbrella of the Federation of Sports and Play Associations (FSPA), the national trade body responsible for representing Sports and Play Associations in the UK’s sport and play industries. www.sportsandplay.com
Media Contact
Mary Lubrano, Head of Communications. For further comment contact Mary on e: [email protected] m: 07999 550452
