‘Making the best use of the space that we’ve got’

– A conference to explore what’s possible

Wednesday 19th September

During times of continual challenge to maximise resources for our residents, communities and visitors –collaborative work between services, organisations and partners to achieve outcomes for mutual and universal benefit is key. We have an incredible amount of ‘space to play’ in Powys – but how do we make best use of it?

Everyone needs to play - it’s not just for children………We need you!

…planning….highways….education / schools service….regeneration….leisure…youth services…libraries….countryside….children & adults services…housing…outdoor recreation…policy makers…directors….members…partners…suppliers...contractors…arts….museum …town & community councils….commercial services…property services…health services…regulatory services...3^rd Sector Organisations

Play is an essential element of life – making it a fundamental component from birth right through to older age and is a cross-cutting theme for all services, is integral to health and well-being and many other organisations and partners. You may not consider ‘play’ to be within your remit or concern, however it is surprising how it links to nearly every other agenda e.g. planning a new housing development or designing a new road or school, dealing with behaviour, mental health or work-related stress. The requirements and benefits of play should not be underestimated or dismissed.

Supporting the national theme of ‘Play in Public Space’, this conference is designed to provide the arena to explore, discuss and raise important issues relating to existing and potential spaces ‘to play’ throughout the County, whether in parks, streets, schools, the countryside or future developments. We recognise and appreciate that creating ‘new’ or agreeing to big ideas is not possible, so we need to consider the existing space that we have - and make the best use of it.

Keynote speakers , including Tim Gill  ( Rethinking Childhood) and Marianne Manello (Play Wales) will provide insight into industry specific research and evidence. Workshops will enable the necessary discussions to review and shape the Sufficiency Assessment process and development and agreement of the Action Plan. Case Studies and examples of where funding has already benefited services, communities, children, young people and their families will be shared.

Powys as a local authority has a Statutory Duty to undertake regular Play Sufficiency Assessments and produce an annual action plan to demonstrate the opportunities and facilities available. The Welsh Government’s bold step in legislating for play is embedded in its rights-based approach to policy making for children and is included in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) General Comment No.17 on Article 31.

We value your input and contribution and hope that you will join us on Wednesday 19^thSeptember 2018 , The Pavilion, Llandrindod Wells. Please confirm your attendance by return email to play.in.powys@powys.gov.uk   Please advise of any access, communication or dietary requirements.

We look forward to seeing you on the 19^th September!

(Organised by PCC Leisure & Recreation Service and PAVO on behalf of Powys County Council)