API re-states its commitment to children and play
PRESS RELEASE
Date: Immediate Release
The Association of Play Industries – API has drawn up a new charter that re-states its aims and beliefs relating to children’s play and their wellbeing. It emphasises the API’s continuing promotion of good industry standards and inclusive design – where listening to children means they are consulted on the spaces they play in.
The charter highlights the API’s goals of working more closely with other stakeholders in play, such as the recent partnership formed with the Children’s Play Information Service, the creation of new information sheets to help communities play projects in their area and to keep in play on the political agenda at a time when it appears to be overlooked by other equally important issues, such as schools and the London 2012 Olympics when the API it feels it should be placed alongside them.
API Chairman, John Croasdale, said: “The API and its members have always been focused on improving the health and wellbeing of children through play. This charter makes that commitment clear as many of our member companies have already produced a wealth of information on the benefits of play; exercise, fun and learning. The charter also highlights our political stance that more needs to be done to support the future of play provision and the communities it serves.”
API Charter
- The API believes that all children have a fundamental right to play.
- The API encourages children to play in a variety of environments to get the most out of play.
- The API will develop partnerships with other key stakeholders within play.
- API members will design and deliver challenging and exciting play areas with a degree of built-in risk.
- The API promotes the many health benefits of active play, including physical exercise and social skills.
- The API is committed to ensuring play remains on the political agenda.
- The API and its members offer information on funding streams and can guide communities and schools from design and consultation to completed play projects.
- The API believes in listening to children so they are consulted on the spaces they play in.
- The API will maintain and raise the standards of our members through support, education and training.
- API is committed to high levels of safety and quality throughout the industry.
Editors Notes:
The Association of Play IndustriesThe 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.
In conjunction with event organisers Brintex the API hosts an annual trade exhibition 21-22 June 2011. More details can be viewed at www.playfairuk.com
The API operates under the umbrella of the Federation of Sports and Play Associations (FSPA) the national trade body responsible for representing 18 Associations in the UK’s sport and play industries. www.sportsandplay.com