The new Outdoor Community Play Fund was announced by Children’s Minister, Clare Haughey on Tuesday 12th April 2022. This funding will support charities providing outdoor community play opportunities for children and families experiencing disadvantage, as defined by SIMD. Up to £15,000 can be applied for by registered Scottish charities meeting the criteria.
Funded by Scottish Government, Inspiring Scotland’s Thrive Outdoors team will manage the fund, supporting charities delivering outdoor play to enhance the lives of children, young people, families, and communities.
The fund will also support four pilot projects providing outdoor play opportunities for children with additional support needs.
Children’s Minister Clare Haughey said:
“All children have a right to play and there is strong evidence that playing outside can benefit children and young people’s health and wellbeing.
“We know that families from more deprived areas and those with children with additional support needs can sometimes find it difficult to access play opportunities. By increasing our investment in the Outdoor Community Play Fund in 2022-23, we will help more children to access quality outdoor play in their communities, to be active, meet friends and have fun.”
Celia Tennant, CEO of Inspiring Scotland, said:
“We believe it is essential for children and families to have continued opportunities to play outdoors – supporting their physical and mental health and wellbeing.
“As fund managers, we will use the expertise we’ve gained from over a decade of work in this area to help provide more and better opportunities for Scotland’s children and their families to play, learn and thrive.”
Last year, more than 5,500 youngsters took part in organised sessions through the Outdoor Community Play Fund. This year, funding has increased to £550,000 so more children, young people and their families can benefit.
Find out more information and how to apply to the Outdoor Play for Wellbeing Fund.
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