Inclusive play

Particularly suitable for:

local authorities
visitor attractions
education providers
heritage or environment sites which include a play element

Children benefit from being outside, interacting with their environment, learning from nature and developing through play. However, children's environments and patterns of play have changed dramatically in recent years: urbanisation means there are fewer natural environments close to home and increasingly parents discourage outdoor play. This makes it critical to create better opportunities for children to play outdoors.

An inclusive approach ensures that available provision caters for all children, young people and families. Creating places that are inclusive also encourages an understanding of diversity. Ensuring that young people and adults can all socialise, play and be part of a community enables them to gain a greater awareness of and sensitivity to the needs of others.

The Sensory Trust has worked on several inclusive play projects resulting in both accessible and inspiring play opportunities. We can offer:

review of existing sites and facilities
advice on designs to ensure they are inclusive
engagement sessions with the community who use the facilities and those who may typically be excluded in order to fully understand their needs
disability and diversity training for staff involved in the design and management of play spaces
consultation to ensure the inclusive opportunities provided are meeting the needs of the community.