API supports inaugural National Play Awards and Conference

The Association of Play Industries (API) was pleased to play a key role in the inaugural National Play Awards and Conference, held on 8 and 9 October at the University of Warwick, through its sponsorship of the Sector Award and the Children's Voice programme.

Organised by Play England and SAPCA, the two-day event brought together representatives from across the play sector to celebrate achievements, share research and discuss the opportunities and challenges facing children's play.

At Thursday evening's National Play Awards, the API sponsored the Sector Award, recognising the contribution of organisations and individuals working to improve play opportunities for children.

The following day's conference saw the API support the Children's Voice programme, giving children and young people an important platform to share their experiences and ideas on play. The programme was a central feature of the day, demonstrating the value of involving children directly in conversations about the play opportunities available to them.

API Chair Dr Amanda Gummer also took part in a panel discussion exploring the conditions needed for play, alongside Laura Walsh, Tim Gill, Andy Robertson and Chris Wright.

The conference programme covered a wide range of issues, including playground investment, play sufficiency in planning and new research into children's outdoor play. Speakers included Tom Hayes MP and Professor Helen Dodd, whose research underpinned the API's recent Playground Power campaign.

Dr Amanda Gummer, Chair of the API, said:

"The inaugural National Play Conference was a great opportunity to catch up with API members, industry colleagues and some inspirational people doing fantastic things in play. I particularly enjoyed our panel discussion on the conditions needed for play. There was a real sense of optimism throughout the day that play is finally getting the recognition it deserves as a force for good in our increasingly challenging world. I hope this is a sign that momentum around play is building and that government is listening and will take action to support it.”

The API was delighted to support both events, recognising excellence across the sector while helping to ensure that children's voices were heard in discussions about the future of play.