Recreation, Parks and Play

Play is a significant and valuable opportunity for all children to grow and develop. Children have an innate desire to play and to seek out opportunities to take increased risks. This is an essential part of their informal learning. 

"Play is a child's first claim on the community. No community can infringe that right without doing deep and enduring harm to the minds and bodies of its citizens." (Lloyd George, 1926)

We want to make sure that children have access to stimulating play opportunities that are fun and exciting. By giving children the opportunity for freely chosen play, we are allowing them to explore their own communities and their place within it. By providing these opportunities we will reduce the child's desire to seek them out in places that expose them to danger.

Consultation has taken on a Play Strategy for Monmouthshire and this strategy will shortly be finalised by the multi agency Play Strategy Group. This document recognises the importance of play for children and young people in Monmouthshire and has an action plan showing how play opportunities will be expanded and delivered in the future.

Play Development in Monmouthshire aims to give a child a good start in life by providing opportunities for quality play experiences to take place. This involves building up partnerships with other bodies and the voluntary sector to make best use of the natural resources that exist in Monmouthshire and provide more play opportunities in the rural areas.

Play Development promotes the development of staffed play provision. The Play Rangers are working with village halls and community groups to set up sustainable open access play opportunities. We have one open access adventure play site at Underhill, Abergavenny, which is staffed on weekends by two playworkers.

For more information on the above please contact Play Development on 01633 644540.

Useful links:
www.playwales.org.uk
www.clybiauplantcymru.org
www.gavowales.org.uk