Play England announces new Elected Director

Play England is pleased to confirm that Amber Ogunsanya-William has been nominated and elected as an Elected Director (Trustee) to the Board, following the resignation of Elected Director (Trustee) Archie Morrell in January 2026.

Amber’s election was formally confirmed by members at the Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) held on 2 March 2026.

This ensures continued sector representation on the Board and reflects Play England’s strengthened governance structure, introduced at the 2024 AGM, which brings together Independent and Elected Directors (Trustees) to provide a balanced, accountable and effective Board.

Amber Ogunsanya-William

Elected Director

Amber Ogunsanya-William is an Inclusive Play Consultant and the inaugural NSPCC Champion of Childhood. With a background rooted in adventure playgrounds, she champions play as a powerful force for equity, joy and transformation in children’s lives.

Working across education, community and cultural sectors, Amber partners with organisations and brands to embed inclusive, child-led approaches that centre children’s rights and a strong sense of belonging. Her work spans grassroots initiatives through to national and global campaigns, consistently advocating for the importance of play in children’s everyday lives.

Amber has been an active contributor to Play England’s work, including supporting the launch of the organisation’s 10-year strategy- It All Starts with Play! in Parliament. She has also played a visible role in championing play through wider public engagement, including opening the Story Explorers exhibition at the British Library.

Recognised as a winner of the UK Playwork Sector Award, Amber brings both lived and professional experience of play, alongside a strong commitment to ensuring every child feels seen, heard and able to play.

“When I think about my journey, I remember being raised by an adventure playground. It held me before I had the words, taught me courage before I could name it, and gave me the first safe space I truly trusted. Being elected as a Director for Play England is a full-circle moment. It connects that lived experience with the opportunity to help shape the systems and spaces that support children’s play. I am committed to ensuring every child has the same sense of belonging, freedom and opportunity to play.”

Governance and next steps

Amber joins the Board alongside recently appointed Independent Directors and the Independent Chair, as part of Play England’s strengthened governance framework.

Looking ahead, Play England will be seeking to elect two additional Elected Directors to join the Board at the 2026 AGM. The nomination process will open later this Summer, and further details will be shared in due course.

The Board will continue to oversee delivery of the organisation’s 10-year strategy - It All Starts with Play! and its work to influence policy, planning and practice to support long-term system change for children’s play.

Looking ahead to 2026

Our 2026 Annual General Meeting will take place as part of the inaugural National Play Conference and Awards on 8–9 October 2026. We look forward to sharing more details soon. Save the date.

#ItAllStartswithPlay!