After a dynamic and intensive campaign by APPG member, the Association of Play Industries (API), Boris Johnson and his team have put a smile on children’s faces! The API issued an open letter to the Prime Minister,  making the case for the opening of public playgrounds only a fortnight ago. The campaign was enthusiastically  taken up by ‘The Mail on Sunday’ and most importantly, backed  by many families in all parts of the country who know that play is a vital component of a fit and healthy childhood.

Congratulation to the API – and let’s hear it for the Government as well because they have made a really smart move!

Boris Johnson and his Ministers have shown that like every parent, they understand that play is not just for a sunny day.

 

PLAY IS FOR LIFE!

 

Helen Clark, Lead Author, The All-Party Parliamentary Group on a Fit and Healthy Childhood

The Association of Play Industries (API) has welcomed the statement today from the Prime Minister that playgrounds in England are to be re-opened. The announcement was made shortly after the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government consulted the API for their views on what support and guidance Government could provide for playgrounds to re-open.

We’re delighted that the Government has listened to our campaign and realised the crucial role that public playgrounds have in our communities. Millions of children have found the months of lockdown physically and mentally harsh, so now is the time to prioritise children’s outdoor play and activity

Our message to the Government is: act now to prevent children from becoming the victims of the pandemic aftermath.  Active kids become active adults, so prioritising the future of free-to-all public playgrounds is paramount in preventing obesity and fostering good mental health.

Mark Hardy, Chair, Association of Play Industries