Posted on: Friday 29 May 2020
More than ever, play is so integral to a child’s mental health and well-being during these strange and often difficult times.
When the lock down measures were introduced back in March, Torfaen Play looked to round up a range of play resource packs that could be delivered to support vulnerable families across Torfaen.
The play resource packs form part of the Play Lending Library where a wealth of play resources has built up over the years for families and community groups to access. The packs include a selection of arts and crafts, board games, sports equipment as well as specialist disability equipment.
To date, more than 90 play packs have been delivered to families in Torfaen, where a number of families were signposted from partners Crownbridge school, Bron Afon, The Serennu Centre, Action for Children, TOG’s as well as Social Services.
Initially families linked to the Disability Play Project received the packages and then the service rolled out to families from other Play and Well-being Projects.
Feedback suggests that families are extremely grateful of the extra play resources in a time where many are restricted to their homes.
Feedback from Families
“Thank you so much for lending us the equipment, we are currently sheltering and cannot go out so the kids are using the hall way and the living room as their main play space and the balls we had were just not appropriate to use inside. They have thoroughly enjoyed playing with the table tennis in the front room. Thank you so much for lending us this they are thrilled” Thomas and Tamsin’s Mum, Pontypool
“Thank you so much for lending us the equipment, we have been finding it so hard, but this is just brilliant. We just cannot emphasise what a difference your service has made!” Julie Gearon, Croesyceiliog
Executive Member for Children, Families & Communities, Councillor Fiona Cross said,
‘The response from Torfaen Play Service since the Covid-19 outbreak has been outstanding. Not only have they been proactive with providing online support for families with engaging content, they have also been providing care and play activities at our childcare hubs that were set up to support children of key essential workers.
Impressively they’ve also provided family play packs for vulnerable families across the borough. This is a testament to the hard work of both staff and volunteers at Torfaen Play Service who are committed to ensuring all children in Torfaen have a right to play no matter their circumstances.'
If you are aware of any families who would benefit from a play resource pack, please get in touch with the Play Team by emailing julian.davenne@torfaen.gov.uk