PlayNation UK ISSUE 1 2026
Interview with
Resilience & Hope
Cathy Dunlevy
Catering for babies in soft play
Outgoing Play England Chair, Anita Grant, reflects on a decade in play
SPACES for PLAY The latest play projects and innovations
Accessible & inclusive
How to independently assess a play area’s inclusiveness?
The importance
of Play!
Play England campaigns for all children and young people to have freedom and space to play throughout childhood. We work with national partners and other organisations with shared aims to raise awareness about the importance of play. We lobby government to make fundamental policy changes to protect and promote play, and encourage everyone who has an impact
on the lives of children and young people to recognise and plan for children’s play. Play England has also built up considerable experience and resources to help support individuals and organisations that work in these particular areas: Government Local Authorities Schools Playwork
We need your support
The new UK government is making positive noises about understanding the importance of play. However, against this positive backdrop, Play England is suffering from a lack of funds to pay for our essential work campaigning for children’s right and freedom to play.
Donate today to support our work. www.playengland.org.uk/donate
www.playengland.org.uk
Contents
42 34 32 12 PlayNation UK 07 News
24 Workforce standards
12
26 40 years of play
Latest news from the play sector
Leadership, Resilience & Hope Outgoing Play England Chair, Anita Grant, reflects on the past decade in the sector
20 Catering for babies in soft play
Half of children’s entry tickets in indoor play are for toddlers – so catering for them is important
22 The Starlight Health Play Awards 2025
Celebrating the best UK healthcare professionals that support children in hospitals
4
Issue 1 / 26
PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 1 2026
Update on occupational standards for playwork
PlayBoard NI marks its 40-year anniversary
32 The pillars of sustainability
Interview with Club Central’s Tanya Petherick
34 Accessible & inclusive playgrounds What is PiPA and why is it important?
42 Spaces for play
A look at recently completed play projects
Imagine a world of play!
Our 2026 brochure is now available. Order or view online.
kompan.co.uk • 01908 201002
Designing unique spaces together! kompan.co.uk • 01908 201002
People
PlayNation UK The importance of play and physical activity for young people Tom Walker
Publisher
Editor
PlayNation
PlayNation
john@nationmedia.uk
tom@nationmedia.uk
Contributors
Cathy Dunlevy CEO Head Over Heels
Anita Grant Chair Play England @PlayEngland
PlayNation, in partnership with Play England and SAPCA (the Sports And Play Construction Association), is dedicated exclusively to the dynamic and growing sector of play and physical activity for children and young people. Published bi-monthly, the magazine focuses on the policies, people and places that help young people to play and be more active. Subscribe now and we will email you a complimentary copy of the magazine every two months.
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John Challinor
Subscribe today for regular news and updates http://www.playnation.uk FOLLOW US: @PlayNationMag http://www.linkedin.com/ company/playnationmag
Advertising opportunities Contact John E: john@nationmedia.uk
Alan Herron
Becky Maddern
@playboard_
@PiPA_Play
CEO Playboard NI
Director PiPA
PlayNation is published by SportsNation Ltd in association with Play England (www.playengland.org.uk) and the Sports And Play Construction Association (www.sapca.org.uk) This publication is protected by copyright and no part may be reproduced, transmitted or stored in any print or electronic format without the written permission of the publisher. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the contents of this publication and PlayNation accepts no responsibility for any error or misrepresentation. Opinions expressed by the contributors and advertisers are not necessarily those of the publisher and we do not accept responsibility of losses or damages arising from them. Printed by Bigwave Marketing Ltd.
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 1 2026
National Play Conference announced for 2026 The Sports and Play Construction Association (SAPCA) and Play England have joined forces to launch the first-ever National Play Conference in 2026 – a landmark one-day event designed to bring the play sector together at a pivotal moment. The conference will provide a unique national forum for everyone involved in creating, enabling and advocating for play, from designers, playworkers, contractors, manufacturers and local authorities to educators, playground operators and policymakers. Through a carefully curated programme of keynote addresses, panel debates and practical learning
Discussions will span the political
for the latest innovations that are
sessions, the event will explore
landscape around play, wellbeing
redefining how play spaces are
the most pressing issues shaping
and public health, as well as focus
designed, delivered and experienced.
play today and into the future.
on topical issues, such as adventure
With insight, inspiration and
Delegates will hear from an
playgrounds, the ongoing challenge
practical takeaways at its core,
influential speaker line-up, which
of getting children more physically
the National Play Conference aims
includes policymakers, sector
active, the realities of the current
to inform, challenge and connect
specialists from a range of industries
planning climate and funding issues.
the entire play community.
and innovators connected to play.
The event will also act as a showcase
The one-day conference will take place on Friday 9 October 2026 at The Slate, University of Warwick. The night before, on Thursday 8 October 2026, the same venue will also host the first ever National Play Awards. For anyone working in, or alongside, the UK play sector, the National Play Conference will be an essential date in the diary.
The one-day conference will take place on Friday 9th October 2026 at The Slate, University of Warwick
PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 1 2026
7
Government reveals £18m investment in playgrounds in Budget The government has announced a multi-million pound investment in play at the Autumn Budget, with the most deprived areas being prioritised for funding. The Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, revealed details on how the £18m play areas across England. The investment forms part of the Government’s wider commitment to strengthen communities and “break down barriers to opportunity” under its Pride in Place programme. The investment in play follows sustained lobbying from
£18m will be spent on refurbishing 200 play areas across England
Play England, the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on
outdoors – with children from
and a clear signal that play is finally
Play – chaired by Tom Hayes
poorer households spending
back on the Government’s radar.
MP – and growing cross-party
much less time outside than
recognition of the deep inequalities
children from wealthier families.
in children’s access to play. Evidence shows there are
Eugene Minogue, Executive
“But one-off funding will not close these gaps. “We urgently need a new
Director of Play England, welcomed
National Play Strategy and Play
stark inequalities across England
the news. He said: “£18 million for
Sufficiency legislation within the
when it comes to accessing the
200 playgrounds is a welcome step
Planning and Infrastructure Bill.”
Dame Karen Buck named Play England Chair Play England has named Dame Karen Buck as its independent Chair. Buck served as MP for Westminster North for 27 years, from 1997 to 2024 and as a councillor at Westminster City Council. PHOTO: HM GOVERNMENT/HOUSE OF COMMONS)
Her national roles have included Parliamentary
8
Under Secretary of State at the Department for Transport and several shadow ministerial positions. She is widely respected for her legislative work on housing standards, poverty and community rights. Commenting on her appointment, Dame Karen Buck said: “Play England has a clear strategic direction, stronger governance and growing national influence. The board’s work over many years has created the foundations for a new phase of ambition, including real opportunities to strengthen legislation, planning policy and the systems that shape children’s lives.”
PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 1 2026
PHOTO: PEXELS.COM/KINDEL MEDIA
will be spent on refurbishing 200
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Kirkby Leisure Centre play area extended Work has been completed on a soft play area at Kirkby Leisure Centre in Nottinghamshire.
The new play area includes a wide range of equipment
The work saw the soft play area
Community play and sports area revitalised in Tardy Gate
extended by 20 per cent, with a wide range of new features being added. These included a foam forest, a mirri maze, “soft ninja”, a log ramp and a free jump area, as
Tardy Gate Play Area has been
and challenge for younger and
revitalised into a vibrant and
older children and features
inclusive play environment. In
such as a wheelchair-accessible
is part of a £207,000 investment
partnership with South Ribble
roundabout and brightly
by Ashfield District Council – which
Borough Council, Proludic
coloured shop-play panels ensure
owns the centre – and Everyone
designed and installed the
inclusive play for every ability.
Active, which operates the centre
refurbishment, transforming
A new MUGA offers facilities
well as a speed and reaction zone. Completed in November, the work
on behalf of the council.
a tired local park into an
for ball games and skating, with
As well as the new play area, the
exciting play destination that
bright colours and an open-sided
investment has seen an extension of
encourages active, social and
design to make it welcoming
the fitness suite and an update to
imaginative play, and promotes
and spectator-friendly.
the building’s management system.
The existing tarmac and safer
Councillor Chris Huskinson,
The park includes a ninja trail
surfacing have been upgraded with
the council’s Executive Lead for
with a solar-powered stopwatch
artificial carpet and thermoplastic
Leisure, Health and Wellbeing,
panel for timed challenges and
graphics and the original teen
said: “Our new soft play area at
friendly competition. Two Diabolo
shelter has been repainted to
Kirkby Leisure Centre is bigger
multiplay units offer exploration
enhance the park’s appeal.
and better and we can’t wait
accessibility and inclusion.
to welcome families back.”
£1m active play area for Lagoon Leisure Centre in Paisley
The new facility will feature a TAG Active arena
Lagoon Leisure Centre in
the climbing maze. The
Paisley, Renfrewshire, will
arena features tunnels,
soon benefit from a new
crawl space, a cargo climb
£1million active play area.
maze, giant inflatable
The new facility will
balls, and climbing frames
feature a TAG Active
as part of a vibrant
arena that will test
play space designed to
strategy, speed, agility
promote fitness, fun
and bravery as players
and competition.
compete against their
The centre is owned by
friends to collect points
Renfrewshire Council and
using a wristband sensor
the new area will open
on lights located around
in late summer 2026.
PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 1 2026
11
People
Leadership, Resilience & Hope Outgoing Play England Chair, Anita Grant, reflects on the past decade she has spent at the organisation
A
s I step down from my position as Chair of the Board for Play England, I have reflected on my years steering the charity and celebrating play. We have just launched our 10-year strategy, It All
Starts with Play!, which outlines the fundamental need for a reset and restoration of a play-based childhood. At the same time, the government is on the verge of announcing £18m to refurbish 200 play areas across England. It seems like change is coming, at last. When I first joined the trustee board of Play England in 2016, the world of children’s play was suffering. Austerity meant that funding for play was severely reduced. Even the word ‘play’ was rapidly disappearing from government documents. Playwork training was being reduced and screen time was becoming a real discussion point for those thinking about children’s experiences. It was also the year of the Brexit vote, heralding an abrupt end to many collaborative projects across Europe that had long supported a rich, shared understanding of childhood.
The pandemic effect Three years later, in 2019, I became Chair of Trustees, stepping into the role just as the COVID-19 pandemic brought a universal halt to the freedom to play, affecting every single child across the country. For many children, the sudden disappearance of opportunities to play freely and interact with peers marked a profound disruption in their lives. I still struggle to comprehend that children were once allowed outside for no more than an hour a day! We
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 1 2026
Mental health conditions among children rose sharply - from one in eight in 2017 to one in five by 2023 - and experts note that prolonged play deprivation contributed to this rise. continue to live with the impact of those decisions,
outlet for stress and anxiety, and without it, many
and our collective responsibility to learn from them.
children struggled to process the uncertainty and fear
When schools closed, and playgrounds were
surrounding the pandemic. Mental health conditions
taped off, the spaces where children typically
among children rose sharply- from one in eight in
played vanished overnight. Parks, sports clubs,
2017 to one in five by 2023- and experts note that
and community centres, places that provide safe
prolonged play deprivation contributed to this rise.
environments for physical activity and social
Throughout these challenges, I have been proud to
interaction, were inaccessible. Even informal play,
help steer Play England through some of the hardest
such as meeting friends after school or playing in the
moments in children’s play lives. As trustees, our aim
street, was curtailed by strict pandemic rules on social
was simply to safeguard the charity during its darkest
distancing. For younger children, this meant losing
days, acting as custodians so that Play England would
the chance to explore and learn through play-based
be ready when public and political opinion shifted back
experiences. For older children and teenagers, it meant
toward recognising just how vital play is for children.
isolation from peer groups and the loss of shared
I am hopeful that the moment has arrived. We
activities that help build identity and confidence.
are now seeing genuine momentum. There is an
In my own organisation, Islington Play Association,
All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Play.
we fought hard to keep our sites open, providing
Additionally, the Covid Inquiry has revealed
free play for children through the lockdowns as
the profound effects of pandemic decisions on
much as possible. We saw first hand the change
children, accompanied by calls for apology and
in children’s confidence and social skills as fear
renewed commitments to play sufficiency, play-
became an everyday feeling for them and their
based learning, and greater support for physical
families. As part of the children’s play safety forum,
play across all sectors. Over the last decade, Play
I was part of a group that commissioned research
England has worked tirelessly to keep play firmly
into how Covid spread, arguing successfully with
in the public consciousness, featuring in national
local authorities that there was minimal danger of
media, collaborating directly with government
transmission on metal play equipment and lobbying
departments, and offering practical support to
for playgrounds to reopen as soon as possible.
organisations delivering play across England.
A matter of health
of freedom and play remains unwavering. As
The absence of play had cascading effects. Physical
children navigate an increasingly complex world,
health suffered as children spent more time indoors.
the agency and autonomy they gain by interacting
Research shows that by September 2020, children
freely with their peers and environments will shape
were half as active as before the pandemic. Social
their ability to thrive. I am excited to see what
development was and remains affected as children
comes next for Play England. Its next iteration
missed out on learning cooperation, negotiation,
will, I believe, play a crucial role in shaping a
and empathy at pivotal developmental stages.
future where children’s right to play is protected,
Emotional well-being also declined; play is a natural
celebrated, and embedded in every layer of society.
My commitment to the fundamental importance
PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 1 2026
13
Parliament debates making learning through play statutory at KS1 A petition calling on the Government to make play and continuous provision statutory for children aged 5 to 7 in Key Stage 1 has secured a Parliamentary debate. Launched by play-based learning consultant, Ruth PHOTO: PEXELS.COM/COTTONBRO STUDIO
Lue-Quee, the petition has secured 105,000 signatures – exceeding the 100,000 needed for a debate. Under the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, schools and early years settings are required to embed play-based learning and create enabling environments that support both child-initiated and adult-supported exploration.
Once children move into Key Stage 1, the requirement to embed play-based learning disappears
Yet, once children move into Key Stage 1 (Years 1 and 2), that
social and emotional resilience.
The petition has been supported
requirement disappears – leaving
Yet in England, we pull the rug
by Play England, whose Executive
a significant developmental gap.
from under our youngest learners
Director, Eugene Minogue, said:
“Play isn’t a luxury,” Lue-Quee
the moment they leave the Early
“This petition aligns closely with
Years Foundation Stage. This
Play England’s 10-year strategy,
said. “It is how children learn best. “Decades of research show
isn’t about lowering standards or
It All Starts with Play!, which calls
that play builds cognitive skills,
holding children back. It’s about
for play to be embedded across all
supports wellbeing, and develops
creating the right foundation.”
systems – including education.”
Wicksteed hosts MP for discussion on play PHOTO: WICKSTEED
Wicksteed recently had the pleasure of welcoming Tom Hayes, MP for Bournemouth East, to their Kettering headquarters for an in-depth tour of their British manufacturing facilities. During his visit, Tom met with members of the team across the factory floor, gaining first-hand insight into the craftsmanship, innovation and care that go into creating inclusive, high-quality play equipment. The MP’s visit also included a filmed interview, where he discussed the Government’s recent announcement of £18 million to improve 200 playgrounds in the country’s most deprived areas. Katherin Perkins (L), MD of Wicksteed Leisure, with Tom Hayes MP and members of the Wicksteed team
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 1 2026
He spoke about the importance of investing in safe, accessible spaces that allow children to play and highlighted the role British manufacturers play in delivering durable and inclusive play environments.
Children’s party industry gets first quality standard PHOTO: PEXELS.COM/KSENIA CHERNAYA
A new initiative aims to bring consistency, safety and professional recognition to the children’s party market, which is estimated to be worth £1.1 billion in the UK. PartyMark is the first-ever “gold standard” accreditation for children’s party providers, including indoor play operators. PartyMark was created in response to growing consumer concern over safety and quality at children’s parties. Research shows that up to 80% of parents choose venues and providers based on recommendations or social media reviews, while for
PartyMark was created in response to growing consumer concern over safety
some venues, parties can account for 50% of annual revenue.
offers a premium tier, including
“I’ve seen the incredible impact
the PartyMark Experience Review,
a well-run party can have for a
delivering children’s parties and
an independent assessment of the
child, but I’ve also witnessed the
accredited providers commit to
provider’s entire party journey
chaos when safety and planning fall
meeting the standards it sets
from first enquiry to party day.
short,” Sharman said. “PartyMark is
PartyMark is open to any provider
The accreditation is the
across safety, quality, inclusivity
designed to give families confidence
and professionalism. For those
brainchild of children’s activity
and to support providers in delivering
looking to go further, PartyMark+
specialist Chris Sharman.
exceptional, safe experiences.”
Play areas in Surrey get inclusive makeover PHOTO: KOMPAN
Three play areas in Surrey will be upgraded and made more inclusive and accessible as part of a council’s annual play area replacement programme. Reigate & Banstead Borough Council (RBBC) has revealed that play areas at Hogden Bottom in Kingswood, Beecholme Recreation Ground in Banstead, and South Park in Reigate will all receive new equipment and landscaping. RBBC has appointed play specialist, Kompan, to undertake the work, which will begin in the week commencing 5 January 2026. The play area refurbishments are designed with equipment and layouts aiming to “include everyone” and to ensure that a range of ages and abilities can Play specialist, Kompan, has been appointed to undertake the upgrades
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 1 2026
learn, interact, imagine and play together. In addition to accessible elements, the equipment will feature inclusive grips, varied heights and wide steps.
Fantasy Range
world of wonder
National Play Conference 2026 A landmark one-day event designed to bring the play sector together at a pivotal moment The one-day conference will take place on Friday 9 October 2026 at The Slate, University of Warwick. The night before, on Thursday 8 October 2026, the same venue will also host the first ever National Play Awards. The conference will provide a unique national forum for everyone involved in creating, enabling and advocating for play, from designers, playworkers, contractors, manufacturers and local authorities to educators, playground operators and policymakers. Through a carefully curated programme of keynote addresses, panel debates and practical learning sessions, the event will explore the most pressing issues shaping play today and into the future.
Delegates will hear from an influential speaker line-up, which includes policymakers, sector specialists from a range of industries and innovators connected to play. For anyone working in, or alongside, the UK play sector, the National Play Conference will be an essential date in the diary.
https://sapca.org.uk/events/national-play-conference/
Sutcliffe invites children to create their own play designs PHOTO: SUTCLIFFE PLAYCHERNAYA
Sutcliffe Play invited Year 6 pupils from Moorthorpe Primary School, located close to its HQ in Upton, Yorkshire, to find out more about the design and manufacture of play equipment. The visit was part of the school’s design and technology project for the term ahead. Members of Sutcliffe’s Design and Sales team were then invited to catch up with the pupils at the school as they completed their projects of designing a brand-new playground equipment. This visit was where the children were able to present their exciting design ideas to the team.
The children’s designs included ziplines, slides, swings and roundabouts
There were ziplines, slides, swings and roundabouts and the Sutcliffe
“The creator of the standout
our business’s social value and supporting our fantastic community.
team said it was “totally blown
designs received a special prize
away” by the children’s innovation
and everyone took home a goodie
“Thank you to Moorthorpe
and dedication. Their knowledge
bag for all of their hard work,” a
Primary School for giving us the
of some of the most important
spokesperson for Sutcliffe said.
chance to see these wonderful
concepts in play – including colour,
“Our collaboration with the
young creative minds at work!
materials, play value and inclusivity
school is the latest example of
We can’t wait to see them making
– was “genuinely inspiring”.
our commitment to expanding
their mark in the years to come.”
Waterplay area for Leighton-Buzzard PHOTO: USTIGATE
Ustigate Waterplay has been working with LeightonLinslade Town Council on the refurbishment of its Splash ‘n’ Play for the 2026 season! The project will include the installation of new award-winning water play, inclusive play panels, an energy-saving pump, a foot wash and below grade sand traps to ease maintenance, and to reduce operative costs. Ustigate will also install a Twinsplash, armed with a large tipping bucket that presents double the thrill with a duo of splashes. Originally installed in 2011, the Splash ‘n’ Play at Parson’s Close has proven to be very popular Ustigate was appointed for the project at Splash ‘n’ Play at Parson’s Close
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 1 2026
in receiving approximately 250,000 visitors per year and facilities have been extended to include a beach within the park in the summer.
Big imaginations call for better designs. Creating play spaces that leave a lasting legacy. That’s Jupiter Play & Leisure. jupiterplay.co.uk | 0115 969 9859
Let’s Play!
People
Catering for babies in soft play Around 50% of children’s entry tickets in indoor play are for toddlers and babies. PlayNation spoke to Cathy Dunlevy from Head Over Heels – which runs multi-award-winning indoor play venues in Chorlton & Wilmslow – on why it is important to cater for this segment Why is provision for babies such an important part of soft play centres?
padded floor space, mini climbs and slides, role play
Babies and very young pre-school children are available
quieter weekdays, when older children are at school, play
almost every day of the week, which is very different
naturally flows into other ground-floor areas. Families can
to school-age children who tend to visit mainly at
enjoy our interactive immersive sensory room, Safari Falls,
weekends and during school holidays. If you want a soft
along with spaces like the large ball pool and disco area.
play centre to work well throughout the week, you need
We also replace our electric cars with ride-on vehicles that
to think carefully about how you cater for this age group and on
spaces and dress up, sensory room and toddler stage. On
are better suited to this age group. We’re increasingly seeing mums
weekends and school holidays ensure
meeting online and choosing the
these spaces are well managed
centre as a place to meet in person,
and protected from the higher-
alongside lots of local parents and
energy play of older children.
grandparents. We regularly have families travelling up to an hour
Why does soft play work so well for babies in particular?
to visit us. Weekdays lunchtimes
Soft play is ideal for babies. The
during the winter. This is helped
padded floors mean adults can
by our toddler show with the
sit on the floor with their children
mascot just before lunch, which
while they crawl, explore and start
naturally leads into café time.
can be very busy particularly
to learn to walk in a very safe
all work really well at this age
Parents matter just as much in the experience – how do you cater for them?
because they encourage interaction
A lot of it comes down to the
and heart warming moments.
details and we are always working
space. Sensory play, role play, dressing-up and shared activities
Attractive spaces matter too as parents naturally
on improving the experience. Babies are precious, so
photograph and share these early experiences and
parents need to see that spaces are genuinely clean
this is great organic marketing. Bringing families in at
and well cared for. Temperature and music matters for
this stage also builds a longer customer life cycle.
everyone, as do good toilet and changing facilities and somewhere comfortable to sit. Quality food and drink
How does that work in practice at Head Over Heels Wilmslow?
makes a big difference too, especially when people
Babies and very young children start in The Village
during the week, so families can relax, stay as long
Green, our fully enclosed early-years space with a large
as they like and really enjoy their time together.
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 1 2026
are staying for a while. We also offer unlimited play
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People
The Starlight Health Play Awards 2025
T
he Starlight Health Play
the UK. Our winners embody the
Awards celebrate UK
spirit of collaboration and innovation
healthcare professionals
that drives our vision - that no child
for supporting children
experiences trauma in healthcare. “Sadly though, their award-
in hospitals. The
2025 winners of the awards were
winning work isn’t experienced by
announced during a gala event
all children. Most hospitals still have
held at the Science Gallery, part of
no budget for play and the majority
King’s College London, where the
of health play professionals say that
spotlight was shone on those whose
they are completely dependent upon
work is creating lasting, positive
Starlight for resources and support. “Thanks to our funders and
change for children undergoing
It’s been very special to celebrate with the community of people who help us in every way with our mission to put play at the heart of every child’s healthcare
The winners of the annual Starlight Health Play Awards were announced at an event in London
healthcare treatment across the UK.
fundraisers, we already support
Cathy Gilman, Chief Executive
900 settings across the UK, but
of Starlight, said: ““These awards
there’s much more to be done.
are much deserved recognition of
It’s been very special to celebrate
the compassion, creativity, and
with the community of people
determination of expert people
who help us in every way with our
working to improve the experiences of
mission to put play at the heart
children undergoing treatment across
of every child’s healthcare.”
WINNERS Protectors of Play The Protector of Play Award recognises healthcare professionals who are championing play, even though it might not be in their official job description. For 2025, there were joint winners. Tania Sparks, Project Manager of the NHS South West Surgery in Children Operational Delivery Network and her team, were selected for spreading the word about the benefits of play for all paediatric hospital treatments and procedures across the south west region and nationally. Raquel Duncombe, an anaesthetic nurse in emergency surgery at the Princes Royal University Hospital, in Orpington, London, was selected for using Starlight resources and playful techniques to calm young patients. Her work is also influencing theatre colleagues, making procedures run more smoothly, reducing stress for the patient, their families and staff.
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 1 2026
Play Team of the Year Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust
Mentor of the Year
Play Team was selected for
Debbie Daniels, Senior Health
Health Play Specialist of the Year
Play Specialist at Poole Hospital
Leanne Gowland, a Durham
children’s inpatient ward to
Dorset, was selected for ensuring
Children’s Continence Play
its new Midland Metropolitan
the healing power of play is
Specialist was selected for her
hospital site and their work
available to future generations
pioneering work supporting
across the trust relaying
of children in healthcare
children with bladder and
valuable insights to medical
through her exceptional work
bowel difficulties, preventing
teams and supporting
guiding and developing future
hospital admissions and
children from diverse and
professionals in the field.
protecting mental health.
deprived communities.
their instrumental role in the successful move of a
PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 1 2026
23
Policy
Workforce Standards
T
An update on The National Occupational Standards for Playwork, which are currently under review by the four nations across the UK
he UK Playwork National Occupational
on how NOS are used by employers, governments
Standards (NOS) Consortium comprises
and national organisations. There was a strong
Play England, the Playwork Foundation,
desire to reflect that playwork should be seen as an
PlayBoard Northern Ireland, Play
approach to working with children of any age in a
Scotland and Play Wales. The consortium
range of settings, and that the Playwork Principles
of non-profit play and playwork
are central to defining the role of the playworker.
organisations has been meeting since October 2021. It was established to plan strategically across the
As of November 2025, draft NOS have been written for the roles of support playworker, playworker and
four nations for the future of workforce development
playwork manager. These are being shared with
and sector skills initiatives, including a future review of
an Advisory Group of sector representatives for
the NOS. In 2024, the NOS Consortium gained approval
feedback prior to a formal consultation, which is
from the UK Standards and Framework Panel to lead this review of the NOS, which were last updated in 2016. National Occupational Standards (NOS) are statements of the standards of performance for a given sector. For playwork, they include the knowledge, understanding and skills required to be a support playworker, playworker or playwork manager. NOS are competency based, agreed by the
The resulting new NOS will ensure that playwork qualifications reflect the ways that playwork roles are evolving and support the mobility of playwork qualifications across the UK
planned for March/ April 2026. Please also look out for opportunities to engage in regional webinars during the spring to give your views on the draft standards by following the social media channels of your national play organisation. The resulting new NOS will ensure that playwork qualifications reflect the ways that playwork roles are evolving and support the mobility
sector and used as the basis for the development of
of playwork qualifications across the UK. We know
qualifications. They can also be used to support the
from feedback that NOS can also be used to evidence
development of job descriptions and staff appraisals.
unique elements of playwork as an occupation.
There are strong links between the UK Playwork
This includes setting playwork apart from other
NOS Consortium and the four Playwork Education
aspects of the children’s workforce and important
and Training Councils (PETCs) whose role is to
elements of the playwork approach, such as benefit-
discuss issues of strategic importance on all
risk assessment and playwork intervention.
aspects of playwork education, training and qualifications in their respective nation. Play Wales is leading the process on behalf of the
The NOS will be published in both English and Welsh in May 2026 on the UK National Occupational Standards Repository.
NOS Consortium. Throughout 2025 the Writing Group has been meeting to review the old NOS and draft
● To find out more about the NOS review read
updated NOS that reflect the ways in which playwork
the consortium’s series of information sheets
is developing across the four nations. A scoping
that are shared by members on their respective
exercise, conducted in 2023, gathered information
websites: www.play.wales/playwork/workforce/
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 1 2026
E TH E E V AT SA D
17-18 JUNE 2026 EXCEL | LONDON
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Places
40 of
years
Play P
PlayBoard NI marked its 40-year anniversary in 2025. As part of celebrating its milestone of championing children’s right to play for forty decades, it hosted a special conference in Belfast, titled “Spaces for Play, Spaces for Childhood”. PlayNation reports the highlights from the conference and also looks through PlayBoard NI’s work throughout the years
layBoard, Northern Ireland’s lead organisation for children’s play, has celebrated a major milestone as it marked its 40th anniversary with a flagship conference titled “Spaces for
Play, Spaces for Childhood.” The event took place at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Belfast on World Children’s Day (20th November 2025), drawing sectoral leaders, educators, policymakers and play practitioners from across Ireland and beyond. The anniversary conference highlighted four decades of PlayBoard’s work advocating for the importance of play in children’s development and wellbeing. Presentations explored how play spaces can be designed, protected and enhanced to support healthy childhoods, particularly at a time when young people face increasing pressures from digital life, academic demands and reduced access to outdoor environments.
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 1 2026
There were a wide range of speakers from across
and, importantly, look ahead to the future.
the UK, including Mike Greenaway from Play
PlayBoard CEO Alan Herron paid tribute to the
Wales; Marguerite Hunter Blair, former CEO of
individuals, partnerships, communities, and above
Play Scotland; Eugene Minogue from Play England
all the children who have helped shape – and
and Michael Martin, lecturer and Director of Urban
been part of – PlayBoard’s remarkable journey.
Design and Planning, University of Sheffield. The speakers addressed issues including the
“PlayBoard’s story is truly one of resilience, innovation and at times – sometimes too many
need for child-centred urban planning, the role
times - sheer grit and determination. But above all,
of play in mental health, and the challenges
it is a story of purpose - ensuring every child has
facing communities where safe and accessible
the opportunity to play, to thrive and to belong”.
play spaces are limited. The conference also
Reflecting on the organisation’s history,
reflected on the organisation’s long-term impact,
delegates heard how PlayBoard in 2025 is, in
from supporting play, playwork and policy
many respects, a very different organisation
development to delivering programmes that
from the one that first emerged in 1985. From
promote inclusive, creative, and freely chosen play.
small beginnings, PlayBoard has expanded to
Opening the event, Junior Minister Reilly and
develop UK-wide, All-Ireland and international
Junior Minister Bunting praised PlayBoard’s
reach and influence - yet it remains firmly
important work over the last four decades
rooted in the core principles on which it was
and reaffirmed their commitment to play.
founded and is today recognised as the lead
The event provided delegates with an
organisation for play in Northern Ireland.
opportunity to reflect on past achievements, celebrate the many successes over the years,
Through high-quality programmes delivered in communities, schools, School Aged
PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 1 2026
27
Places
PlayBoard has concentrated on advancing the realisation of every child’s right to play, with a particular emphasis on inclusive play Childcare settings, and youth environments,
As PlayBoard continued to expand, its influence
PlayBoard continues to lead the way in
deepened. The organisation spearheaded the
embedding play-based approaches that support
development of the play sector in Northern
children, young people, and families.
Ireland, helping to build capacity at local level.
It is an organisation that champions play
With an increasing recognition of the value
– and the transformative power of play – as
of play—coupled with a more stable political
a vital contributor to physical, mental, and
landscape—the organisation shifted its focus
emotional wellbeing; to education and learning;
towards influencing policy and advocating
to social development; and, perhaps most
for stronger strategic recognition of play.
importantly, to the essence of childhood itself.
Four decades of PlayBoard
In the past ten years, PlayBoard has concentrated on advancing the realisation of every child’s right to play, with a particular emphasis
Looking back over the past four decades, a clear
on inclusive play, alongside continued innovation
pattern emerges in PlayBoard’s evolution. In
in programme development and delivery.
its first decade, the organisation grew from its
Founded in 1985, PlayBoard was born from a
community roots to establish itself as a key
very simple but powerful idea: That play mattered
part of the wider children’s sector, championing
- not as an afterthought, but as something
understanding of play and its vital importance.
fundamental to children and young people’s lives.
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 1 2026
enormous social and political challenge in
1985 to 1994: building community through play
Northern Ireland. Communities were fractured.
Building on those early foundations, PlayBoard’s
Opportunities for children were limited
first decade was defined by community
and “play” was rarely seen as a priority in
empowerment and community voice. PlayBoard
public discourse. PlayBoard provided an
worked to provide access to safe, engaging
independent voice and an advocate for play.
play spaces and play opportunities – which,
The organisation emerged at a time of
And yet, even then, the founders of PlayBoard
for many children, introduced new types and
recognised something vital: that play could be
forms of play experiences, while offering
a unifying force, a connector driving community
opportunities to build new friendships
relations and a way to restore childhood in
across traditional barriers through play.
places where childhood had been disrupted.
The organisation set standards and provided
Those early years were about working
support, often unifying what had been fragmented
with communities, listening deeply to the
efforts and bringing professional credibility
challenges children faced, and responding
to what had often been viewed as an informal
to real need through community-based play
(and therefore, to many, unimportant) activity.
initiatives and local partnerships – and these
At this time PlayBoard became an early policy
in many ways became the beating heart of
voice - arguing that play was not just a “nice-
PlayBoard’s work over the years to come.
to-have” but a social necessity, especially
Those foundations matter because everything
in communities dealing with the impacts of
PlayBoard is today still rests on that early belief:
deprivation and conflict. This period sowed the
That every child deserves the right to play,
seeds of PlayBoard’s leadership role. Not just a
regardless of who they are or where they live.
deliverer of programmes, but as a driver of change.
PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 1 2026
29
People The most recent decade has been one of ambition, complexity, and innovation 1995 to 2004: building a sector, building capacity
Playboard NI:
The sixth truths & learnings
P
layNation asked PlayBoard NI to look back across four decades of its work and to list its biggest learnings. It responded with six “truths”, which it
says have become “unmistakably clear”. “These lessons, drawn from experience,
partnership, community, and evidence, form the
The second decade marked somewhat of a shift as
foundation on which PlayBoard stands today.
PlayBoard’s capacity and influence grew. PlayBoard
They will continue to guide the organisation as
led EU investment programmes focused on Play
it shapes the next decade of play in Northern
based School Age Childcare – securing €20 million
Ireland. Despite 40 years of work, much remains
through the PlayCare Initiative in recognition
to be done. It is clearer than ever that play
of the sector’s value to parents – a value which
underpins many of the core outcomes the
remains as relevant today as it did then. Funding
Northern Ireland Executive is seeking to achieve.”
workforce came the need for standards and
1
support as PlayBoard helped nurture the
Geography continues to shape children’s
playwork profession and broaden understanding
experiences; poverty limits choice; a lack of
of the value of play. And it was during this
inclusion restricts opportunities based on
period that engagement with play at a
ability; and fear – of traffic, strangers, or
policy level intensified, helping to lay the
simply unsafe spaces – restricts freedom. Over
foundations for future policy development
40 years we have seen how unequal access
and contributing to a growing body of local
to play mirrors wider inequalities in society.
research demonstrating the benefits of play.
And this is something we cannot ignore.
supported the creation, expansion and stabilisation of School Age Childcare settings across rural, urban and disadvantaged communities. With the growth of a skilled play-based
Play is universal – but access is not Every child has the instinct to play; it is woven into who they are. Yet not
every child enjoys the same opportunities.
This era established the essential infrastructure–the skills, the knowledge, and the workforce–that continues to sustain our sector today. PlayBoard was no longer simply supporting play; it was building play.
2005 to 2014: play as a driver of cohesion
Strategic engagement with Government led to the securing of the NI Play Policy Statement in 2006, followed by the Play and Leisure Implementation Plan in 2011. Meanwhile,
The next decade unfolded against the
cross-community and cross-border initiatives
backdrop of a society emerging from conflict.
were delivered driving cross-community
Northern Ireland was changing - and with it,
understanding through play, demonstrating
the role of play was evolving too. PlayBoard
that play could succeed in breaking down
understood something profound: play could
barriers where other approaches struggled.
be a driver of cohesion, a mechanism for
The organisation championed the view
healing, connection and social transformation.
that play is far more than recreation–it is
PlayBoard influenced public debate and shaped
developmental, social, cultural, and political–
programmes that fostered shared spaces and
implementing approaches grounded in
shared experiences for children through play.
inclusion, rights, and empowerment.
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 1 2026
2
Play thrives in communities that are empowered Early work showed that when
communities take ownership – when play is not “delivered to” them but built with them – children flourish. Top–down approaches, no matter how well intentioned, can only go so far. Real, lasting change comes when parents, volunteers, local leaders, and children themselves shape their own play landscape.
3
Conversely, when play slips down the agenda,
5
opportunities shrink and children feel the
and best ideas have been shaped – if not sparked
impact. Play is not peripheral; it is central
– by listening directly to them. Their honesty,
to healthy childhoods. That is why advocacy
creativity and perspective have guided PlayBoard
remains at the heart of PlayBoard’s mission.
for 40 years, and must continue to do so.
Policy matters When government chooses to prioritise play, investment follows, environments
improve, and outcomes for children strengthen.
Children’s voices are essential Children understand their own wellbeing more clearly than we often assume. Our
strongest evidence, most impactful programmes,
4
children’s daily lives. They hold the skills,
6
insight and passion that turn ordinary moments
Not bound by departmental priorities, political
into transformative experiences. Yet they
cycles, or commercial interests, PlayBoard’s
face ongoing financial pressures, recruitment
responsibility is singular: to champion
challenges, and undervaluation. If we want
the right to play. That independence has
high-quality play opportunities, we must invest
enabled PlayBoard to challenge, to innovate,
in the people who make them possible.
and to lead when others could not.
2015 to 2025: rights, inclusion and innovation
inclusion. It also secured recognition of play in the
The most recent decade has been one of ambition,
delivered a key transformational programme with
complexity, and innovation for PlayBoard.
the Department of Education – Play Matters.
The sector needs support Playwork and childcare professionals are too often the unsung heroes of
Children’s lives have changed dramatically.
PlayBoard’s independence is a strength PlayBoard is trusted because we speak
with one clear voice – the voice of children.
Children and Young People’s 10-Year strategy and
Elsewhere, it developed and established
Technology, urbanisation, changing family
effective school programmes, including
patterns, educational pressures, and now
‘Positive PlayGrounds’ and ‘Taking Outdoor Play
artificial intelligence are reshaping childhood.
Seriously (TOPS)’ Quality Assurance Award. In
PlayBoard has consistently championed the
partnership with Mae Murray Foundation, it
child’s right to play as enshrined in Article 31 of the
also undertook NI-based research, ultimately
UNCRC. It has strengthened strategic partnerships
driving the development of a UK Statement
with councils securing more than £15m worth of
on Inclusive Play and co-designed the ADAPT
investment in local play spaces, while enhancing
Framework, supporting inclusive play park
design standards and prioritising play value and
development at local council level.
PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 1 2026
31
People
The pillars of sustainability Tanya Petherick is a former Play England trustee, joint-CEO of BeMore and CEO of Club Central, which supports out-of-school sector professionals. She shares her tips on how to deliver sustainable success when it comes to children’s play
I
s exceptional quality provision enough to guarantee ongoing sustainability? I’d love to say yes; make your provision great and everything else will follow. Sadly, experience has shown me it’s just not true. Sustainability is built on four interconnected pillars: quality
of provision, great leadership, effective marketing, and strong financial management. Master these, and your provision won’t just survive, it will thrive.
Quality of provision: the heart of sustainable success At its core, our work is creating incredible play opportunities for children. It’s the foundation on which everything else is built. When children are engaged, supported, and challenged in their play, the benefits ripple outward. Children want to return, they tell friends, parents notice, word spreads, and demand grows. Are you giving every single child the best possible experience? The outgoing child. The sporty child. The introvert. The neurodivergent child. The child who is never normally noticed. Making your provision truly exceptional is the starting point. There’s no one-size fits all way to make your provision incredible for children; follow these tips for a solid foundation ● Ask the children. Hear their voice; not
just what they say, but what they do, what they use and how they interact. ● Use the Playwork Principles. This is the
framework for great play provision. Don’t know them? Stop reading and search for them now! ● Reflect deeply. Reflection is the art of contemplating,
reviewing and refining your practice. Reflect regularly and you will see the positive impact of regular, small changes.
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 1 2026
Leading with vision: achieving the dream
Marketing: making your value visible
If quality keeps children coming back, leadership is
This might sound stark but if no one knows about
the glue that makes it happen. Leadership is the art of
your incredible service, it might as well not exist.
sharing your vision to motivate and inspire others. When
Marketing is the third pillar of sustainability;
you lead with vision you embed positive values and
sharing messages so people choose your provision.
behaviour and create a place where people want to be.
Providers can lack confidence, or believe
Without strong leadership, practice can slip, bad
marketing isn’t necessary. Wouldn’t it make our
habits multiply and attendance drops. Often no one
lives easier if great provision spoke for itself?
knows why. The gradual decline doesn’t result in
We know children love a story. So do adults and
complaints. Provision that was once incredible is less
marketing is storytelling. It’s not creating the best
good. The compelling reason to return is gone.
brochure or website. It’s communicating your values, your approach, and the unique experience you offer.
Use these tips to inspire and motivate your team to achieve great things:
These tips will help your brilliance to shine.
● Clarify your purpose. Why do you do what
● Share your story with pride. Don’t just tell
you do? Why does your setting exist? Capture
people what you do, tell people why.
your purpose in a sentence that inspires.
● Highlight what makes your offer unique. Really
● Share your purpose with everyone. Consistently.
unique. “We provide a safe place for children to thrive”
A mission is much more than words on a
isn’t memorable or unique. It could be anyone. Use
website; it should be lived every single day.
your story and words that spread your passion.
● Live your values. Encourage others to do the same.
● Communicate with heart. When you
In meetings, ask, “How have you lived our values today
communicate with heart, your message sounds
or this week?” Use values to inform decision-making.
more authentic and resonates more deeply.
PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 1 2026
33
People
Club Central was set up to support out-of-school sector professionals
Leadership is the art of sharing your vision to motivate and inspire others
Financial management: the numbers that matter Numbers matter. Even the most inspiring provision can falter without solid financial management. Decisions need to be made. Fees charged. Wages paid. Resources purchased. Without a strong grasp of finances, it’s impossible to make the right decisions. Use these tips to better manage your finances: ● Review income and expenditure. Analyse
last year’s spending. Find one cost to reduce without compromising quality. ● Review fees. Fees should be set above break-even.
If you don’t break-even you will run out of money. ● Make difficult decisions. A small fee increase today
could ensure generations of children can access your service. Closed provision is used by no one.
Bringing the pillars together How do you bring these pillars together? High-quality provision gives you a compelling story; brilliant leadership makes it happen, effective marketing ensures parents know it; and robust financial management keeps the doors open. If you take one thing from this article, remember, sustainability requires attention to all four pillars. Quality, leadership, marketing, and financial management are not separate; they are interdependent, each strengthening the others. Tanya Petherick is a director of BeMore, a training, mentoring and consultancy firm specialising inspiring childcare providers to implement exceptional delivery and business practices.
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 1 2026
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Spaces
Accessible & inclusive playgrounds Becky Maddern, Director of PiPA, explains why it is important to have a tool to independently assess inclusiveness of outdoor play areas
A
s a parent to a child with a profound disability, I have first-hand experience of what it feels like to see your child excluded from parts of society. My son, Benjamin, has Cerebral Palsy and
Epilepsy, and he is Registered Blind. He cannot sit unaided, crawl, stand, or walk. These are significant challenges, yet they do not define who he is. Benjamin is a little boy who loves to interact. He loves being swung high and connecting with other children. Most importantly, he deserves and has a right to access playgrounds alongside his brothers, his friends, and every other child.
The reality of exclusion Unfortunately, many playgrounds remain inaccessible.
cases, playgrounds are not inaccessible due to lack of
As a family, we often avoid local parks because they
funding, but due to a lack of understanding of what
cannot accommodate Benjamin safely or meaningfully.
truly constitutes inclusive design. Funding is essential,
This is not unique to us; countless families across
it allows councils to purchase equipment and improve
the UK face the same barriers. Benjamin is not
infrastructure, but it cannot replace knowledge and
excluded because of his disability alone but because
intention. We also do not have inclusivity imbedded
playgrounds are too often designed without disabled
within the National Design Code and therefore when
children in mind. Accessibility and inclusion are still
new build estates are being built many play spaces
treated as optional, rather than fundamental.
are designed without accessibility and inclusivity at
Through my campaigning, I discovered that in many
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 1 2026
the heart of the design process. This has to change!
Redefining accessible play An accessible playground is not one where a single wheelchair-accessible roundabout or a sensory panel is installed to tick a box. True inclusion means integrating accessible and inclusive equipment throughout the entire playground. It allows children of all abilities to play together naturally and enjoy challenge, adventure, and fun. To design a play space with greater inclusivity, we need to re-think our design and equipment choices while at the same time still providing risk and challenge.
True inclusion means integrating accessible and inclusive equipment throughout the entire playground PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 1 2026
37
Spaces
What is PiPA? The PiPA Accreditation is a standard based on studied and agreed outcomes from the design of areas of play and social interaction. It exists to drive a set of impartial guidelines, which deliver improved play provision for disabled children and their families. PiPA exists to empower the true meaning of inclusion, equality and diversity in play area design. Enabling everyone the same opportunity to play in a fun and safe environment, because all children need and have the right to play.
This insight led to the creation of PiPA Play. PiPA
The impact of inclusive playgrounds
Play is a non-profit Community Interest Company
Play is fundamental to a child’s development. It
that raises awareness, educates, and supports
supports physical health, communication, emotional
councils, designers, and play providers to understand
wellbeing, confidence, and social connection.
what inclusive playgrounds look like in practice. We
Inclusive playgrounds allow children and young
evaluate the entire family journey, from travelling to
people of all abilities to play together, fostering
the park, through physical access, play value, rest
empathy, understanding, and respect from an
and recharge spaces, and community engagement.
early age. They help break down social barriers,
PiPA’s work in action
reduce isolation, and strengthen communities. Over the past eight years, my campaigning has
PiPA Play works at every stage of playground
taken me across the UK. I have worked with councils,
development. We review tender documents, assess
presented to play equipment companies, supported
current provision, and collaborate with play companies
Scope’s Let’s Play Fair campaign, and spoken to
and councillors to improve designs. This ensures
Members of Parliament. Through PiPA Play, I have
accessibility and inclusion are embedded from the outset,
turned lived experience into practical action, helping
rather than retrofitted later. By helping stakeholders
decision-makers understand not just the “why” but the
understand inclusive design, we prevent costly mistakes
“how” of inclusive playground design and how we can
and create spaces where all children can thrive.
create invisible inclusiveness within our playgrounds.
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 1 2026
Designing an accessible and inclusive playground is not about going above and beyond it is simply meeting the rights of every child to play
A vision for the future Families like ours face daily barriers. Uneven surfaces, narrow pathways, lack of seating, and absence of sensory features make playgrounds inaccessible. Inclusive playgrounds address these issues holistically, ensuring every child can access, navigate, and enjoy the space safely. Inclusive design is also about community. When children of all abilities play together, parents, carers, and siblings engage, learn, and share experiences. Communities become more connected and aware of
wonderful advocacy groups are helping to transform
diversity. It is vital that designers speak and meet with
playgrounds from places of exclusion into environments
the families who we are advocating for. By designing
of opportunity, joy, and belonging. Together, we
playgrounds that include everyone, we invest in a
can create a future where all children, regardless of
future where inclusion is the norm, not the exception.
ability, can play, grow, and thrive together because
Benjamin, like every child, deserves joy, freedom,
designing an accessible and inclusive playground
and the simple pleasure of play. Through awareness,
is not about going above and beyond – it is simply
education, and action, PiPA Play and so many other
meeting the rights of every child to play.
PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 1 2026
39
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Places
SPACES FOR PLAY
PlayNation looks at some recently completed play projects and newly
launched innovations around the country
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 6 2025
Williams Den expands toddler play with timberplay Williams Den, an award-winning tourist attraction in East Yorkshire, has recently enhanced its outdoor play offering with the introduction of extended toddler play areas. Placing play at the heart of everything it does, Williams Den appointed Timberplay to design and build its outdoor play spaces since the earliest stages of the business. Williams Den represents a distinctive approach to farm diversification, moving away from traditional farm animals to instead focus on landscape-led play spaces. This approach provides children with more challenging and varied play opportunities, including extensive sand and water play. By capitalising on the natural landscape, Williams Den offers generous space for play, avoiding segregated play zones in favour of a more integrated environment. Rather than confining activities to designated areas, play is spread throughout the site, encouraging children and families to engage with the natural surroundings through activities such as den building. This creates a unique and immersive atmosphere that sets Williams Den apart from more conventional attractions. Timberplay worked closely with Williams Den to select an ideal range of products specifically designed for toddler play, including a mud kitchen, dwarf castle, sensory elements, and Totter Trail. These features have been thoughtfully positioned across the site to complement the existing play equipment, adding fresh play value to an already popular attraction.
PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 6 2025
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Places
Lowestoft play area gets new lease of life
panel designed by the local school children and a Twinkle Ramp, offering easy access for toddlers and
East Suffolk Council has transformed the Winnipeg
those requiring additional support. Inclusive spinning
Play Area in Lowestoft into a vibrant, inclusive
play is provided through the flush Unity Spinner,
destination designed specifically with younger children
while imaginative role play is encouraged with the Ice
in mind. Located directly opposite a primary school,
Cream Van and bespoke Winnipeg Station Shop panel,
the play space needed to be safe, durable and low
supporting early social and communication skills.
maintenance, while offering a rich variety of engaging play opportunities for toddlers and early years users.
Additional elements such as the Inclusive Squirrel Springy, Rope Basket Swing and in-ground
The council trusted play specialist Wicksteed
trampoline introduce gentle physical challenge,
with the project. In turn, Wicksteed worked closely
supporting balance, coordination and confidence-
with MATTA, developing a practical and colourful
building. A selection of sensory and cognitive
surfacing layout that supports inclusive access,
play panels completes the space, offering quieter
with key toddler and inclusive items positioned on
play opportunities ideal for younger children.
MATTA surfacing directly off the existing pathway. The finished play area provides a wide range of
The result is a welcoming, inclusive play area where toddlers can explore, learn and play
developmentally appropriate play experiences. The
safely – creating a joyful space for families and
Tom Thumb Multiplay Unit features a bespoke play
the wider community to enjoy together.
Inclusive, modular play for every child
building, climbing, storytelling, and cooperative play. With no fixed outcomes, every session is child-led,
Inclusive Play has reintroduced Snug Play, the modular play system designed to spark creativity, movement
promoting deeper engagement and inclusivity. “Snug Play unlocks creativity in every child,”
and collaboration for children in both mainstream
says Melanie Moreland, Director at Inclusive
and SEND settings. Inspired by Simon Nicholson’s
Play. “It provides schools, childrens’ clubs and
1971 “Loose Parts” theory, Snug Play is built on the
community spaces with a research-backed, inclusive
principle that children learn best when they can explore,
solution that nurtures social, sensory, and physical
manipulate, and combine play elements in countless
development – all in one versatile system.”
ways. Extensive UK research shows that open-ended
Real-World Impact: Snug Play has been designed to
play with more “variables” enhances problem-solving,
be durable, portable and weather-resistant, making it
social interaction, and imaginative development.
suitable for indoor and outdoor use in the UK. It supports
Developed over three years in the UK, Snug Play
high-energy, collaborative play while remaining staff-
features large-scale, tactile pieces that encourage
light and suitable for a wide age range and all abilities.
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 6 2025
Toddler play, redefined Outdoor play is essential for early childhood development, giving toddlers the freedom to explore, imagine, and build the foundations of physical and social confidence. Understanding these needs has shaped Playdale Playgrounds’ approach to designing early-years environments – most recently reflected in their Little City Plus range. Little City Plus is a collection of modular stainless steel play towers created specifically for children aged 18 months to five years. Each unit has been carefully designed to suit the way younger children move, think, and play. The range includes a variety of sensoryrich elements such as tactile panels, colourful features and accessible routes that support toddlers as they learn to navigate their surroundings independently, while ensuring children of all abilities can join in. These details help build fine motor skills and spark creativity, giving children countless ways to interact with the equipment. Every unit in Little City Plus is designed to offer age-appropriate challenges and highlights Playdale’s dedication to supporting toddlers through thoughtful, development-focused design that brings learning and play together seamlessly.
PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 6 2025
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Places
Cannock Chase District Council refurbishes tired play area Cannock Chase District Council was keen to make sure its new play area at Cannock Park would be a big improvement on the previous one, which had become tired and outdated. The council wanted a modern and accessible play area with the ‘wow’ factor – and for it to become a destination park. The council appointed KOMPAN to design the new park and the play specialist followed the brief to use sustainable products as part of the local authority’s climate action plan. With this in mind KOMPAN used its Greenline products throughout the design.
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 6 2025
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