Determined youth campaigners in West Norfolk say ‘everyone has the right to play’

A campaign led by young people determined to make a difference has been backed by a local MP.

Members of the West Norfolk Youth Advisory Board recently met with North West Norfolk MP James Wild who heard more about their important campaign, Everyone Has the Right to Play.

Led by young people from across Norfolk, the initiative calls for all play areas to be inclusive, accessible and welcoming to every child, regardless of ability or disability.

The meeting opened with a presentation from eight Young Commissioners, who shared the campaign’s progress and outlined their ambition to embed accessibility into the design, funding and upkeep of play areas.

This was followed by an open discussion where Mr Wild looked at ways he could support the campaign both locally and in parliament.

Rooted in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, the campaign draws on Article 31 - the right to play - and Article 23, which calls for the full inclusion of children with disabilities.

It promotes an understanding of how vital play is to children’s development, boosting physical health, emotional wellbeing and social confidence.

Accessible spaces for play are seen as a key building block for more inclusive, connected communities.

One of the campaign’s Young Commissioner’s said: “It was so important to us to be able to present our campaign and talk to James Wild.

“We are very grateful he had the time to be with us. His support will open doors.

“All we need is the chance to speak to those who can make a difference. Whenever we talk to a council or organisation about our campaign something happens - it is often the small changes that can make big differences.”

Another added: “We have published an action plan with clear straight forward outcomes which can be achieved at national and local level.

“As an example, include a requirement for inclusive and accessible play areas in the National Model Design Code - this would provide guidance for developers and builders.

“Some of this is common sense. Why use wood chippings in a play area which will trap a wheelchair? Why make a gate to a play park too heavy for child to open and too narrow for a wheelchair?”

A spokesperson for the campaign said: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed young people can bring about change.

“This campaign was ignited by lived experience. It has already made changes in a number of play projects where the council has listened to the wise counsel of these young people.

“It is powerful and inspirational.”

Mr Wild aims to support young people with his regular visits to schools and work with the county council’s Targeted Youth Support Service and after the meeting he said: “I was impressed by the passion and determination of the Youth Advisory Board members, and was pleased to have been able to learn about their hard work so far.

“Their Everyone Has the Right to Play campaign highlights how accessible and inclusive play areas are vital for children’s wellbeing and social inclusion.

“I’m proud to support their efforts and will continue to explore how we can take their message further.”

The Everyone Has the Right to Play campaign continues to be taken forward by Youth Advisory Boards across Norfolk, collaborating with councils, MPs and national organisations to change perceptions and influence policy around inclusive play.

Find out more about the campaign at: www.map.uk.net/righttoplay