Pilot Play Rangers project takes shape
A pilot Play Rangers project involving a local community in
Barry and the Vale of Glamorgan Council has enjoyed a tremendous
start.
Following a trial of the scheme, comprising a compilation of
play activities, last summer, a 14-week pilot has been launched,
and the first session was attended more by more than 100 children
and adults from the local community.
The project involves the Stratford Green Residents' Committee,
members of whom have attended a play work training course, and
Council housing and play development officers. It is led by Vale
Play Development Officer Joanne Jones, Play Ranger Charlotte Scott,
volunteer Emily Lewis and community play workers - resident
mother and daughter team Donna and Siân Ford.
Joanne explained: "As a long-term vision, it’s hoped that the
community will eventually be running the project themselves,
enabling children and young people aged five to 14 years to access
quality play opportunities in their community."
The Stratford Green project could pave the way for similar
schemes in other Vale communities, and Joanne said: “Play is
essential for physical, emotional and spiritual growth as well as
developing intellectual, behavioural and educational skills."
The Vale Council runs regular play schemes in the school
holidays for children and young people, normally held at schools,
and community and leisure centres, and the Play Ranger schemes
operate in a similar way in parks and open spaces.
Play opportunities at any of the playscheme or Play Rangers
events include arts and crafts, junk modelling, den building,
parachute games, ball games and fire building. Where possible,
staff and volunteer workers help to facilitate the activities to
meet the individual needs of the young people.
For more information on play development in the Vale, contact
Joanne Jones on (01446) 704809, email joajones@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk
or, alternatively, visit www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk/playdevelopment
Caption: Youngsters and adults are involved in
the pilot Play Rangers project based at Stratford Green in
Barry.