Save Children's Play

In response to demand, Play England launched Save Children's Play - a resource that communities can use to establish their own local campaigns for children's play and be part of a national movement at the same time. 

In a climate of massive public spending cuts, the play sector faces its most difficult challenge since the 1980's. Local authorities are facing tough decisions on spending, and children's play is being hit hard.

Sadly, once we start seeing the impact of cuts - play sites falling into disrepair, play schemes closing and play services making staff redundant, it will be too late. The millions of children who rely on public play facilities will lose out for a generation. 

But it is not just the fundamental enjoyment of childhood that is being damaged by these cuts. Evidence shows that outdoor play is essential to children's health, well-being and future life chances. Obesity, rickets and attention deficit disorder are just some of the growing problems in children that health experts have linked to a lack of good play space, and research also shows a clear link between play and learning. These consequences that are not being fully considered as play is targeted for easy savings. Children on their own cannot speak up about which parts of the public realm are most important to them. It's up to us to stand up for them; to stand up for play.

Action pack
Starting a campaign can sometimes seem daunting, but with a little advice, and a lot of passion, you'll be surprised how a small movement can make a big change. We've put together an Action Pack with simple steps on campaigning to help you Save Children's Play where you live. 

Download the Save Children's Play Action pack

Save Children's Play flyer
The Save Children's Play flyer can be used to promote the resource within your local community. Distribute it in your workplace and local community settings, to help Save Children's Play where you live.

Download the Save Children's Play flyer

Save Children's Play logo
The Save Children's Play logo is available for everyone to use. Campaigning under the umbrella of Save Children's Play will help create a national identity for the movement to support children's play, and strengthen the cause. It's important to make sure your campaign has a local focus too, you can do this by creating your own materials or adapting the title to be locally relevant e.g. Save Children's Play in...           

Download the logo:
Save Children's Play logo [702KB JPEG]
Save Children's Play logo [614KB EPS ]

Save Children's Play on Facebook
Play England has created a Facebook page for Save Children's Play nationally. Make sure you're a fan by 'liking' the page. Also use it to post your opinions, photos and local activity, to seek advice, and gain inspiration from other campaigns. Go to our Facebook page.