The API responds to the recent media interest in the Playbuilder programme
PRESS RELEASE
Date: 13 August 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Improving children's play provision is never more important than at this moment, if only to ensure the last two years of investment are not wasted. Cutbacks are undeniably essential but don't use play as a soft target, play should not be first in line for cuts.
The government decision to remove the ring fencing and the possibility of further losses from the £75m capital funding for play prompts us to review the very real benefits of investment in play. This was the final tranche of the £235m playbuilder programme dedicated to building and refurbishing 3,500 playgrounds across England as part of the previous governments Play Strategy. We believe that the whole play programme will have had an impact on around 15% of playgrounds in the UK, leaving the significant majority untouched. Data being collated by DfE will determine what levels of cuts are to be made and the Local Authorities should hear their new allocation (if any) by the end of August.
Therefore giving us 18 days to lobby for this funding.
The API calls for government to evaluate its decision relating to the play funding very carefully. Saving money from the 'playbuilder' grant should not be a soft option or quick fix. Not only will the possible cuts affect our children and their communities, but will have a devastating impact on the play industry, UK manufacturing and therefore the economy as a whole.
Editors Notes:
The Association of Play Industries (API) www.api-play.org is the lead trade body within the play sector, representing the interests of the manufacturers, installers, designers and distributors of both outdoor and indoor play equipment and safer surfacing. Founded in 1984 it represents approximately 85% of the market with more than 80 members.
The API operates under the umbrella of the Federation of Sports and Play Associations (FSPA) the national trade body responsible for representing 17 Associations in the UK’s sport and play industries. www.sportsandplay.com