Wolverhampton chosen as play pathfinder

Released: 3 April 2008

Wolverhampton has been chosen as a Play Pathfinder by the Department for Children, Schools and Families.

Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, Councillor Paula Brookfield, welcomed the news which will bring £2.5 million funding into the city.

“Wolverhampton City Council and its partners recognise that play is one essential way that children and young people come to understand themselves and the world around them”, explained Councillor Brookfield. 

“Play is a vital component of a child’s life and is crucial for physical, emotional and spiritual growth.

“This new investment in our young people will benefit not only the youngsters themselves but their families, local neighbourhoods, as well as the wider community of the whole city because our young people are Wolverhampton’s future”, she added.     

Play Pathfinder status will involve developing a new and innovative Adventure Playground with an eco friendly building and access to extensive and challenging play activities. 

Around 27 new or refurbished play spaces across the city will allow children to engage in and experience a full range of play activities in their local community. The funding will also increase the number of play rangers working with children in parks and open public spaces. 

Pathfinder Status will give the city approximately £2,000,000 capital funding and £500,000 revenue to support the development of these projects. 

Wolverhampton’s priority will be to engage children, young people and their families at every stage of the process as the city council is committed to the involvement of all its citizens in the development of services.

Through the volunteer programme the council will engage with local communities, actively encouraging volunteering at a localised level.

Issued by the press office.