A new report from the National Playing Fields
Association, Britain's premier charity dealing with outdoor facilities for sport and
play, calls for radical changes in the nation's playgrounds to give disabled
children a better chance.

The report, 'Can Play, Will Play', looks at measures that local authorities and
other operators should be taking in order to comply with new Government regulations.
In particular, it calls for:
- Firm, smooth access paths
- Dropped kerbs at entrances and on pathways
- Bright colours to identify changes in levels or other hazards

A major aim, it says, should be that disabled children have the opportunity to play
on their own or with anyone they choose.

Specially designed equipment for the disabled can be expensive and is easily
vandalised - but the report suggests various items of play equipment that can be
used by disabled and able-bodied children alike. This includes wide slides, swings
that allow children to lie rather than sit, deck roundabouts that allow children to
lie down, swings with rigid harnesses.

The report also stresses that parents, carers, staff, volunteers, and playground
operators need to co-operate in promoting tolerance. "All too often, children avoid
playgrounds for fear of bullying or ridicule," it says.

But at the same time, operators should avoid being over-protective. Children should
not be denied the challenge and adventure which are essential for their wellbeing
and development.

The Disability Discrimination Act 1995 requires service providers to make
'reasonable adjustments' to playgrounds in order to provide easier access for the
disabled by October 1 2004. [SOurce: CRIN]

For more information, contact:
NPFA Head Office
Stanley House, St Chad's Place
London WC1X 9HH
Tel: + 44 (0)20 7833 5360; Fax: + 44 (0)20 7833 5365
Email: jean.tester@npfa.co.uk