Torfaen Play Sufficiency Assessment - Summary of Findings 2019

My Torfaen – A Happy and Healthy Place to Play

Principle Statement … ...... ……..3

Context ...... 3

Matter A: Population ...... 4

Matter B: Providing for Diverse Needs ……………..…….16

Matter C: Open Space Available to Play…………………. 20

Matter D: Supervised Provision…………………………… 22

Matter E: Charges for Provision…………………………… 24

Matter F: Access to Space and Provision ……………… 29

Matter G: Securing and Developing the Workforce…….. 31

Matter H: Community Engagement and Participation ….. 35

Matter I: Play within all Relevant Policy and Implementation Agendas……...... ……..37

Summary of Consultation Findings ………………………….39

Principle Statement

Torfaen County Borough Council continues to commit to increasing, developing and sustaining quality play opportunities and ensuring that the play habits of all children and young people are understood and supported. Torfaen believes that it is essential to promote and enhance children and young people’s opportunity to play both freely and safely within the community. Great emphasis is placed on addressing a wide spectrum of play related issues.

Measures have been implemented to limit the restriction or barriers to children’s play. Regular positive play experiences are essential to enable children and young people to develop and thrive. Torfaen also believes that play provides a wealth of benefits to children and young people’s health and wellbeing. Torfaen is committed in supporting every child’s right to play within every aspect of their lives. Torfaen is now in the position of being able to review for the third time how it delivers, supports and safeguards the concept of play for all children including the most vulnerable and hard to reach groups.

Context

This is the third time that Torfaen Council has been requested by Welsh Government to complete an assessment of sufficiency linked to children’s play and recreation. The previous two assessments were carried out in 2013 and 2016. A similar methodology was implemented to carry out the assessment for the 2018/2019. By working with a wide scope of partners we have been able to collate the required information and address any issues or barriers which have arisen since the previous assessment.

We started to set the scene and gage interest in the assessment process in early 2018. In April 2018 we started the first round of consultation with children, young people and the general public. In May 2018 we held a Play Priority Conference. The event was extremely successful and enabled us to demonstrate the importance of play to professionals and partners. Attendees at the conference included representatives from the key areas within the assessment as well as Elected Members, Town and Community Councils and Local Government. We utilised the conference to put across some of the key issues linked to play and some of the common themes emerging from the public consultation. Due to their knowledge and experience, like in previous years, officers within the Local Authorities Play Service took the lead on the assessment. The Policy Officer from the Play Service was appointed to lead on the research, consultation, coordination of meetings and collation of all data. In total, over 120 partners contributed to the assessment.

The assessment looks at over 100 different measures linked to play and play provision. The local authority is required to provide evidence to support each measure. After the assessment is complete an action plan is collated. The action plan is then sent back to Welsh Government and is monitored quarterly by the Play Sufficiency Action Plan Monitoring group. There is representation on this group from all areas of the assessment.

The assessment looked at the following 9 key themes:- Matter Population Population data broken down into specific Age Range / A Disabilities / Welsh Language / Looked After Children/ Cultural Factors

Matter Providing for a Isolated Rural Areas, Disabilities, Different Cultural B Diverse Need Backgrounds, Inclusion Resources, Gypsy Traveller Community, Young Carers, Lesbian, Gay and Bi Sexual Children and Young People.

Mater Space Available Open Space Assessment, Parks, Brownfield Sites, Fixed Play C for Children’s Play Standards, Smoke-Free Playgrounds, No Ball Game Signs, Play Priority Signs, Consultation on the Disposal of Playing Fields.

Matter Supervised Providing Rich and Varied Staffed Play Provision, Keeping D Provision Records Up To date, National Minimum Standards, Quality Assurance, Sport Provision, Youth Provision, Art and Cultural Provision.

Matter Charges for Play Population Records of children living in low oncome families/ E Provision Areas of Deprivation. Low Cost Venue Hire, Grants and Subsidies available for Providers, Subsided Transport.

Matter Access to Space Traffic and Transport Initiatives, Cycling Access, Road Safety F and Provision Grants, Temporary Road Closures, Family Information Service, Parent Tips and Support

Matter Securing and Training Audit Kept up to Date of the Play Workforce, Workforce G Developing the Development, Training Volunteers, Budgets Ring fenced for Play Workforce Playwork, Continual Professional Development and Play Awareness Training for Professionals.

Matter Community Youth Forums, School Councils , Community Engagement, Play H Engagement and Events, Play Training for Community Members Participation

Matter Play within all Local Service Board, Well Being Plan, Play within Schools, I Relevant Policy & School Playing Fields, Local Development Plan, Local Implementation Transport Plan, Anti-Poverty Agenda, Early Years, Flying Start, Agendas Childcare Strategy, Family Support Initiatives, Intergenerational Approaches, Families First, Adverse Childhood experiences, Community Safety, Health and Safety Policies, Insurance

MATTER A: POPULATION

Community Play Clubs

ACTION To continue to ensure that data linked to population is held and kept up to date and to utilise the data as an active resource for Play and Recreational providers.

Population and Demographic Trends

Ages of children

The last Play Sufficiency Assessment in 2016 used NHS births and schools data for estimating the population age cohorts. However, whilst reviewing this, these estimates did not take into account deaths or migration and were not officially recognised datasets of the population. In addition, the boundary commission have issued changes to the electoral ward boundaries in Torfaen, effective from April 2017, and as such, it is difficult to compare the new with the old wards. Therefore, it was advised that the population estimates are gained from the official ONS mid-year population estimates, which account for births, deaths and migration. Also, ONS have revised the previous ward level population estimates in line with the ward boundary changes so comparisons can be made.

The following population estimates tables are derived from the latest ONS mid-year estimates.

Age Ward Name 0-3 4-7 8-12 13-15 16-17 Total

Blaenavon 298 320 421 200 129 1,368 Brynwern 106 92 103 50 30 381 Coed Eva 120 126 140 107 70 563 Croesyceiliog South 45 69 80 48 47 289 Cwmyniscoy 69 56 84 47 28 284 Fairwater 227 264 295 164 107 1,057 Llantarnam 259 289 323 145 128 1,144 Panteg 317 353 462 247 172 1,551 Pontnewynydd 70 96 66 39 26 297

Pontypool 69 95 93 42 31 330 St. Cadocs and Penygarn 76 102 117 58 44 397 Trevethin 229 224 262 138 80 933 Two Locks 260 279 349 206 148 1,242 Wainfelin 101 105 141 72 66 485 Abersychan 345 415 491 231 138 1,620 Croesyceiliog North 136 146 177 119 72 650 Greenmeadow 131 173 230 132 81 747 Llanyrafon East and Ponthir 54 71 89 46 63 323

Llanyrafon West 124 118 146 56 61 505 New Inn 201 225 292 142 116 976 Pontnewydd 283 269 349 191 135 1,227 Snatchwood 131 117 129 56 42 475 St. Dials 202 225 232 116 78 853 Upper Cwmbran 290 317 415 206 163 1,391 Torfaen 4,143 4,546 5,486 2,858 2,055 19,088

Mid-2015 population estimates by electoral ward, ONS (Revised)

Age Ward Name 0-3 4-7 8-12 13-15 16-17 Total Blaenavon 285 326 367 187 139 1,304 Brynwern 102 81 102 36 38 359 Coed Eva 131 124 151 93 72 571 Croesyceiliog South 56 74 81 48 54 313 Cwmyniscoy 66 57 71 42 34 270 Fairwater 237 262 277 164 135 1,075 Llantarnam 263 281 278 163 142 1,127 Panteg 323 376 443 247 164 1,553 Pontnewynydd 74 84 64 30 39 291 Pontypool 71 71 83 55 40 320 St. Cadocs and Penygarn 73 96 98 60 50 377 Trevethin 245 235 249 143 113 985 Two Locks 260 282 351 221 172 1,286 Wainfelin 102 101 121 83 53 460 Abersychan 342 393 462 231 179 1,607 Croesyceiliog North 118 145 185 112 67 627 Greenmeadow 156 171 239 132 96 794 Llanyrafon East and Ponthir 64 51 85 83 55 338 Llanyrafon West 113 107 131 87 53 491 New Inn 217 211 290 174 132 1,024 Pontnewydd 311 297 334 208 142 1,292 Snatchwood 128 118 109 60 57 472 St. Dials 169 212 185 116 86 768 Upper Cwmbran 314 302 394 229 165 1,404 Torfaen 4,220 4,457 5,150 3,004 2,277 19,108

Mid-2015 population estimates by electoral ward, ONS (Revised)

Age Ward Name 0-3 4-7 8-12 13-15 16-17 Total Blaenavon 13 -6 54 13 -10 64 Brynwern 4 11 1 14 -8 22 Coed Eva -11 2 -11 14 -2 -8 Croesyceiliog South -11 -5 -1 0 -7 -24 Cwmyniscoy 3 -1 13 5 -6 14 Fairwater -10 2 18 0 -28 -18 Llantarnam -4 8 45 -18 -14 17 Panteg -6 -23 19 0 8 -2 Pontnewynydd -4 12 2 9 -13 6 Pontypool -2 24 10 -13 -9 10 St. Cadocs and Penygarn 3 6 19 -2 -6 20 Trevethin -16 -11 13 -5 -33 -52 Two Locks 0 -3 -2 -15 -24 -44 Wainfelin -1 4 20 -11 13 25 Abersychan 3 22 29 0 -41 13 Croesyceiliog North 18 1 -8 7 5 23 Greenmeadow -25 2 -9 0 -15 -47 Llanyrafon East and Ponthir -10 20 4 -37 8 -15 Llanyrafon West 11 11 15 -31 8 14 New Inn -16 14 2 -32 -16 -48 Pontnewydd -28 -28 15 -17 -7 -65 Snatchwood 3 -1 20 -4 -15 3 St. Dials 33 13 47 0 -8 85 Upper Cwmbran -24 15 21 -23 -2 -13 Torfaen -77 89 336 -146 -222 -20

Estimated population change between mid-2015 and mid-2017, ONS

Summer Playschemes

The overall estimated population of Torfaen aged 0 to 17 has reduced by only 20 persons between mid-2015 and mid-2017, however, when analysing this by age cohorts and wards, the inequalities of change can be seen to understand the potential effect on service need.

Age 0-3 Overall, this age cohort has reduced by 77 persons, with the largest decreases being in Pontnewydd (-28), Greenmeadow (-25) and Upper Cwmbran (-24). However, St. Dials and Croesyceiliog North have experienced an increase of 33 and 18 persons respectively.

Age 4-7 Overall, this age cohort has increased by 89 persons, with the largest increases being in Pontypool (+24), Abersychan (+22) and Llanyrafon East and Ponthir (+20). Larger reductions in persons are shown in Pontnewydd (-28) and Panteg (-23).

Age 8-12 This age cohort has the largest change over the two year period with an additional 336 persons between ages 0-17. 19 of the 24 wards show an increase with the largest increases in Blaenavon (+54), St. Dials (+47) and Llantarnam (+45). The largest decrease is in Coed Eva (-11).

Age 13-15 Reductions of 146 persons are shown for this age cohort. The largest decreases are in Llanyrafon East and Ponthir (-37), New Inn (-32) and Llanyrafon West (-31). The largest increases are in Brynwern, Coed Eva and Blaenavon with a change of +14, +14 and +13 persons respectively.

Age 16-17 There are an estimated 222 less persons in this age cohort between the two years. The largest decreases are in Abersychan (-41), Trevethin (-33) and Fairwater (-28). Only five wards show an increase in population with the highest being Wainfelin (+13).

Ward change analysis The wards with the largest increases of children aged 0-17 between mid-2015 and mid-2017, and potentially the greatest increase in service demand, are in St. Dials (+85) and Blaenavon (+64). The largest ward decreases, and potentially the greatest decrease in service demand, are in Pontnewydd (-65), Trevethin (-52), New Inn (-48) and Greenmeadow (-47).

First language Welsh speaking children

Census is currently the only official source for numbers of Welsh speakers and as the Census is currently undertaken every 10 years, the statistics available from the 2011 Census are still current, with the next Census due to happen in 2021, therefore, no updates are available from the source data. Also, Census data hasn’t been updated in line with the 2017 ward boundary changes, so there will be a misalignment of wards between Census sourced statistics and more recent sources like ONS population estimates.

The statistics provided in the PSA 2016 data document for Welsh speakers were for all persons aged 3 or over from Census 2011. However, more detailed tables are available which provides estimates by age; this gives a more focussed understanding of potential service need for the Play Service Assessment. It should be noted that this is an estimate of residents who can speak Welsh, and not whether Welsh is their main language.

Age Welsh speakers 3 147 4-7 1358 8-12 2118 13-15 1523 16-17 760 Torfaen 5906

Welsh speakers by age, table DC2016WA, Census 2011

An estimate of Welsh speakers by single year of age is available from Census 2011, which would enable analysis for the age cohorts needed for this assessment, but due to disclosure control, this is not available at geographies smaller than local authority. A total of 5906 Welsh speakers aged 3-17 were estimated from Census 2011 for Torfaen, with the largest cohort being ages 8-12 (2118).

The table below, also from Census 2011, shows an estimate of Welsh speakers by ward, by broad age cohort, with the closest cohort being age 3-15. This equates to a total of 5146 for Torfaen. A proportionate uplift based on the difference between the age 3-15 and 3-17 totals can be applied to provide an estimate of persons aged 3-17 by ward.

Ward Age 3 to 15 Age 3 to 17 (est) Abersychan 474 544 Blaenavon 357 410 Brynwern 79 91 Coed Eva 140 161 Croesyceiliog North 193 222 Croesyceiliog South 101 116 Cwmyniscoy 66 76 Fairwater 288 331 Greenmeadow 304 349 Llantarnam 266 305 Llanyrafon North 118 135 Llanyrafon South 122 140 New Inn 272 312 Panteg 360 413 Pontnewydd 386 443 Pontnewynydd 78 90 Pontypool 73 84 St. Cadocs and Penygarn 87 100 St. Dials 195 224 Snatchwood 107 123 Trevethin 218 250 Two Locks 387 444 Upper Cwmbran 356 409 Wainfelin 119 137 Torfaen 5146 5906

Welsh speakers by ward aged 3 to 15, table KS208WA, Census 2011

The largest numbers of Welsh speakers are estimated to reside in Abersychan (544), followed by Two Locks (444) and Pontnewydd (443).

Welsh as a main language is not available from Census 2011 for Welsh residents

Cultural factors

Census 2011 shows that 99.3% (13917) of children aged 3-15 have a main language of English or Welsh in Torfaen; the other 94 children had mostly main languages of South Asian (34), Other European (31) of which mainly Polish, and East Asian (18). A more detailed geographic breakdown within the borough is not available.

Mixed/ Black/ multiple Asian/ African/ Other ethnic Asian Caribbean/ ethnic Age White group British Black British group Total 0-4 5228 104 38 7 4 5381 5-7 3043 26 25 7 4 3105 8-9 1889 24 12 2 1 1928 10-14 5479 76 54 7 4 5620 15 1167 13 20 6 2 1208 16-17 2543 37 43 4 3 2630 Torfaen 19349 280 192 33 18 19872 Ethnic group by sex and age, table DC2101EW, Census 2011

97.4% of children aged 0-17 in Torfaen are of white ethnicity. The remaining 2.6% of children are mainly of mixed/multiple ethnicity (280) and Asian/Asian British ethnicity (192).

Black/ Mixed/ African/ multiple Asian/ Asian Caribbean/ Other ethnic Ward White ethnic group British Black British group Total Abersychan 6988 27 35 5 9 7064 Blaenavon 5972 28 45 5 5 6055 Brynwern 1778 9 13 7 1 1808 Coed Eva 2292 12 24 5 2 2335 Croesyceiliog North 3364 24 42 19 1 3450 Croesyceiliog South 1758 11 20 6 1 1796 Cwmyniscoy 1396 11 25 5 1 1438 Fairwater 5114 37 67 9 2 5229 Greenmeadow 3970 47 36 12 3 4068 Llantarnam 5225 44 224 29 4 5526 Llanyrafon North 1962 20 26 4 1 2013 Llanyrafon South 2639 20 38 9 2 2708 New Inn 5941 15 28 0 2 5986 Panteg 7113 38 55 10 1 7217 Pontnewydd 6139 53 82 6 25 6305 Pontnewynydd 1472 5 8 1 6 1492 Pontypool 1808 11 12 2 3 1836 St. Cadocs and Penygarn 1528 7 5 1 0 1541 St. Dials 3583 15 56 7 4 3665 Snatchwood 2032 10 17 0 4 2063 Trevethin 3541 38 14 5 8 3606 Two Locks 6070 56 69 11 6 6212 Upper Cwmbran 5125 54 35 10 4 5228 Wainfelin 2421 11 1 1 0 2434 Torfaen 89231 603 977 169 95 12 91075

Looking at the ethnicity of all residents by ward, of which 98.0% are of white ethnicity, Llantarnam stands out as the highest number of non-white residents, particularly of Asian/Asian British background. Local knowledge tells us that this is probably mostly due to the strong Nepalese community in that area.

Gypsy Traveller children

Census 2011 shows there were 80 children aged 0-17 in Torfaen (out of a total of 155 residents of all ages). The age breakdown isn’t available at a smaller geography, but using the ward breakdown above, there is a high likelihood that most of these children are in the Cwmyniscoy ward.

Age Gypsy or Irish Travellers 0-4 24 5-7 11 8-9 7 10-14 26 15 6 16-17 6

Torfaen 80

Ethnic group by sex and age, table DC2101EW, Census 2011

Half Term Playschemes

The table below shows the numbers of Gypsy or Irish Traveller residents by ward in Torfaen from Census 2011 (all ages). The data hasn’t changed since the last PSA in 2016.

Ward Gypsy or Irish Traveller Abersychan 3 Blaenavon 1 Brynwern 13 Coed Eva 0 Croesyceiliog North 0 Croesyceiliog South 1 Cwmyniscoy 72 Fairwater 3 Greenmeadow 3 Llantarnam 19 Llanyrafon North 0 Llanyrafon South 0 New Inn 1 Panteg 1 Pontnewydd 2 Pontnewynydd 3 Pontypool 12 St. Cadocs and Penygarn 0 St. Dials 5 Snatchwood 1 Trevethin 0 Two Locks 4 Upper Cwmbran 8 Wainfelin 3 Torfaen 155

Ethnic group by ward, table KS201EW, Census 2011

Chart of the numbers of disabled children, looked after children and children on the child protection register per ward.

Disabled Child Protecon Looked Aer Children Register Children Care & Support Ward Persons Persons Persons Persons

Abersychan 10 7 27 37 Blaenavon 11 6 19 35 Brynwern 0 0 6 4

Coed Eva 2 1 4 8 Croesyceiliog North 1 2 4 3 Croesyceiliog South 5 0 8 7 Cwmyniscoy 0 1 3 2 Fairwater 4 8 15 11 Greenmeadow 3 0 18 14 Llantarnam 7 1 17 15 Llanyrafon East & Ponthir 1 0 1 6 Llanyrafon West 1 1 2 4 New Inn 5 0 10 11 Panteg 6 0 23 20 Pontnewydd 7 4 39 35 Pontnewynydd 2 4 24 8 Pontypool 1 8 49 27 Snatchwood 0 0 2 3 St Cadocs and Penygarn 1 4 3 7 St Dials 2 3 21 17 Trevethin 6 3 54 25 Two Locks 1 1 14 18 Upper Cwmbran 5 17 39 34 Wainfelin 0 0 2 9 Out of borough 2 8 0 8 Grand Total 83 79 404 368

MATTER B: PROVIDING FOR DIVERSE NEEDS

Within Torfaen, the inclusion model for play has been identified as sector leading. Over the last ten years we have chipped away and challenged many barriers to inclusive practice. The data collated within this assessment will be utilised to inform providers of the wide scope of needs of children and young people requiring support to access play and recreational provision in Torfaen.

An extensive amount of work has been carried out to develop an inclusive play model which enables all children regardless of their ability and social circumstances to access regular play provision. Through partnership working and replicating the support and resources provided within school settings we have been able to improve the inclusive support provided in play, leisure and recreational provision.

Torfaen are also keen to continue supporting neighbouring authorities in developing their inclusion models. The barriers to accessing provision have been challenged greatly and many obstacles have been removed such as attitudes and access to space and resources. The key barrier which remains is that of finance and sustaining budgets within the current economic climate. A robust training program is rolled out to ensure that the workforce is trained in the relevant key areas to provide inclusive practice. In 2018, over 200 children with disabilities or behaviour needs were supported to access community play provision.

Summary of Findings from Matter B

A wide range of support is provided for children and young people with disabilities to access play and recreational provision by the local authority and 3rd sector partners.

Welsh medium play provision is provided through both Early Years and the Play Sector. Bi lingual provision is provided term time by the Play Service with Welsh medium play provision taking place in both half term and summers by working in partnership with Menter Iaith.

Designated play space is provided and well maintained on Gypsy Traveller site

The play needs of those living in isolated rural areas, those from different cultural backgrounds Young Carers, looked after children and lesbian, gay or bisexual (LGB) children and young people are understood and provided for.

Inclusive support and resources are available to hire through the Play Lending Library

A wide range of partners work together to enable inclusive practice to take place in Torfaen.

Complex families are supported through Play & Respite sessions delivered by the local authority and 3rd sector partners

The Play and Early Years Workforce are trained in inclusive practice in line with standards

The next chart details the actions taken forward linked to Matter B. The actions take into account the play needs of all children and will contribute heavily to ensuring that inclusive practice is delivered across all play and recreational provision.

Matter B – Action Plan Links to Funding other areas of PSA Matter B: To continue to ensure that all play A,B,C,D,E,F, Core Providing provision remains inclusive to all and to G,H,I Families First for challenge any barriers to accessing Social Care & Housing diverse provision. Town & Community needs Councils

To continue to deliver play provision A, B, D Core where possible in isolated rural areas. To continue to deliver play and early A,B,D,G Core years provision through the medium Welsh Language Grant Welsh. To work closely with Menter Iaith to develop the Welsh Play and Recreational workforce. To work with partners to secure suitable venues for Welsh medium play provision. To continue to provide a wide program of B,D,I Families First play and recreational provision for Play & Childcare Grant children and young with disabilities Social Care & Housing including :- Playschemes, Play Clubs, Town & Community Play & Respite Sessions, Play Care Councils Provision, Early Years and Recreational provision. To continue to work with partners in B,D,G,I Core relation to information, resources, Families First equipment and training to ensure that quality inclusive practice is delivered. To consult regularly with parents/carers in relation to inclusive play To continue to support 3rd sector partners B,D,G,I Core to deliver play and recreational provision Families First to children and young people with disabilities and to share resources, information and training To continue to support and promote the B,C,D,F,H,I Play & Childcare Grant Play Lending Library as an active resource for play for families, professionals and the wider community. To continue to complete and make A,B,D,E,G,H, Core strong links to Play throughout all I reporting mechanisms linked to the Childcare Sufficiency Assessment To ensure that the fixed play equipment B,C,H,I Core at the Travellers site is inspected well maintained in line with standards To ensure that the play and recreational B,D,G Core workforce have a good understanding of the play needs of those with diverse needs (Disabilities, Looked After Children, Gypsy Travellers, Young Carers, Different Cultures, and LGBTs etc.) To continue to hold quarterly multi B,D,G,I Families First agency panel meetings linked to supporting children and young people

18 with disabilities.

To continue to deliver the Play & B,C,D,E,I Early Intervention Fund Enhancement Project which prominently focusses on LAC children and young people or those at risk of becoming LAC.

Play & Care Provision

MATTER C: OPEN SPACE AVAILABLE TO PLAY

Officers from Environment and Streetscene have embedded planning policy to carry out an Open Space Assessment which will incorporate a wider green infrastructure element. This will involve engaging with the Play Sufficiency Assessment process especially in relation to consultation with users and other stakeholders. The feedback received through consultation will help develop policy and undertake improvements within existing and new play areas and open spaces as resources allow.

The Open Space Assessment and the Play Sufficiency Assessment both complement each other. Both documents champion children’s play and identify suitable and safe places to play. A large percentage of the consultation results collated will dove tail into both documents. A strong and supportive response from parks and open spaces, social landlords and Friends of Parks Groups has enabled us to critically review the current themes linked to children’s play and open spaces. A commitment from the local authority and social landlords will aim to increase safer areas for children and young people to play within their community close to their homes.

Consultation feedback from many of the children, young people and the public highlighted concerns in relation to their local play area. The council is committed to challenging the issues often faced within open spaces. Many children expressed their concerns of teenagers taking over their static play areas and they don’t feel comfortable accessing them. This is an issue we are currently working closely with

20 partners to address. It has also been identified that a stronger partnership working is required in relation to consulting with the community on play areas.

Links to Funding other PSA Matters Matter C: To develop a “Safe Places to Play “section on the local B,C,D,E,F,H,I All Wales Space authority’s website Play available Opportunity for children Grant to play *To continue to ensure that the parks and play areas C,F,I Core are inspected and maintained in line with standards * To ensure that any new play sites are mapped onto the council GIS system and PI system *To continue to maintain good access to open space as part of the grounds maintenance works. *To continue to look use the KKP report when any new money becomes available so that areas of deficiencies are prioritised for funding. To continue to carry out playground inspections and grounds maintenance works to keep play spaces free from hazards. *TCBC to continue to record all visual and in depth inspections on our Playground inspection computer system. To continue to manage access and safety in relation to designated play space as part of routine playground inspections. * To carry out Play Value Assessments *To continue to ensure that all 42 playgrounds in TCBC continue to be smoke free *To include children and their families in any C,F,H,I Core consultations regarding decisions to dispose of playing *To support social landlords such as Bron Afon to consider the play needs of children in all decision making. *For play providers with experience in consulting with children, young people and their families to provide support to carry out the consultation process where required. To work with partners in relation to planning and B,C,D,E,F,H,I Core & developing parks and play areas, taking in consideration Housing the play needs of older children & young people. To set up a working group to explore implementing a C,D,F,H,I Core two-tier request process for residents to apply for the removal of “No Ball Game “signs where appropriate. To erect play priority signs in playful places

To set up a working group to implement play value B,C,D,E,F,H,I Core assessments across all parks and play areas in Torfaen.

MATTER D: SUPERVISED PROVISION

Over 100 different play related projects are delivered by the local authorities play team engaging with over 6000 children and young people each year through the mechanism of play. This includes weekly play clubs, projects linked to schools, half term and summer playschemes, community events as well as a large number of specialist play projects. In addition to this, a wide range of play provision is also provided by Early Years.

Records of where provisions are located are kept up to date both by the provider as well as publicly through the Family Information Service, the local authority’s web page as well as the Play Services Social Media Site. All play provision that the local authority delivers is not registered as childcare and therefore it does not come under the umbrella of the Childcare Sufficiency Assessment although it is recognised that many parents/carers utilise open access play settings as childcare.

The quality of unregistered play provision is monitored on a quarterly basis taking into consideration aspects such as health and safety, risk assessments, recruitment, safeguarding, inclusion, staff training, ratios and all factors linked to running and effective and efficient provision for children and young people.

A variety of play training is provided to both the play and early year’s workforce to ensure that rich and varied play environments are provided. It is integral that all non- registered settings are monitored in line with standards as we have a duty of care for both the service users and staff who attend.

A wide scope of leisure, youth, culture and sport provision is delivered across Torfaen for children and young people. Torfaen strives to ensure that all provision is delivered to a high level in line with standards. A full audit of provision for children and young people in Torfaen was carried out line with the Play Sufficiency Assessment.

Action Plan – Supervised Provision Matter D: To continue to ensure that a wide range of A,B,C,D,E,F,G,H,I Core Supervised quality staffed play provision is provided all Community Councils provision year round to meet the needs of Families First communities. Anti-Social Behaviour *Community Play Clubs Grant *Half Term & Summer Playschemes *Play Projects linked to Schools *Outreach Play Sessions *Family Play Sessions *Specialist Play Projects (Disabilities / LAC/ Social and Emotional / Behavioural / Lego etc.) *Community Play Events To continue to ensure that information on D, F, H, Core staffed play provision is made available and kept up to date on the local authority website, Family Information Service and Play Social Media Sites. To continue to ensure that the play provision D, G Core /Flying Start delivered by the local authority is to a high Town & Community standard. This includes quarterly monitoring Council and training of staff Out of School Childcare Grant Families First To continue to ensure that support is D,G Core / Flying Start provided to partners to deliver play provision to a high standard To continue to ensure that all registered play D,G Core / Flying Start provision delivered by the authority or commissioned by the authority is regulated to ensure that the National Minimum Standards are met To continue to provide a wide range of sport, D,I Core / Grant Funded youth, art and cultural provision.

To work with partners to explore developing B,D,E,I TBC a number of free junior youth provisions in targeted areas To continue to deliver and promote the Play D,G,H,I Core, Town & Community Volunteer Project for young people aged 16 Councils, Social Care & plus Housing, Families First

To continue to deliver and promote the Play D,G,H,I Core Helper Project for young people aged 13 – 15 years To continue to provide advisory support and B,C,D,E,F,G,H,I Core play provision to neighbouring authorities

MATTER E: CHARGES FOR PROVISION

The local authority believes it is paramount that all open access play provision remains free of charge to ensure that all children and young people have equal opportunity to access regular play provision. Play provision is delivered from venues within the hearts of communities which are easy to access. A list of low cost venues is available for play and recreational providers.

In addition to this, a wide program of free community events which promote play provision are delivered across the borough on a yearly basis. Play provision is paramount particularly within disadvantaged geographical areas. This concept is a key factor of consideration when planning and identifying areas for play provision. Torfaen recognises that many families cannot afford to pay for their children to access play opportunities. Over the last year Town and Community Councils have provided free healthy snacks on all open access holiday play provision recognising the issue of “holiday hunger”.

Furthermore, a number of Learn, Laugh and Get Active Camps are delivered throughout the summer holidays. The camps provide free nutritious breakfast and lunch to pupils as well as activities which promote positive health, wellbeing, play and learning.

The Local Authority keeps records of the number of children living in low income families:

The Local Authority keeps records of the number of children living in E2 areas of deprivation:

Local ONS Child WIMD Authority LSOA Name Name LSOA Code Overall

Torfaen Upper Cwmbran 1 009C W01001536 287 10% most Torfaen Trevethin 1 003C W01001530 469 deprived in Torfaen Blaenavon 2 001B W01001488 248 Wales (ranks 1- 190) Torfaen Cwmyniscoy 004B W01001496 214 Torfaen Upper Cwmbran 3 009D W01001538 267 Torfaen Pontnewydd 1 007A W01001519 213

Torfaen Greenmeadow 1 009A W01001501 280 10% - 20% most Torfaen Greenmeadow 3 009B W01001503 285 deprived in Torfaen St. Dials 1 010B W01001526 271 Wales (ranks 191-380) Torfaen Abersychan 1 002A W01001482 232 Torfaen Fairwater (Torfaen) 2 011B W01001498 230 Torfaen St. Dials 2 010C W01001527 147

Torfaen Two Locks 1 010E W01001532 326 20% - 30% most Torfaen St. Dials 3 010D W01001528 246 deprived in Torfaen St. Cadocs and Penygarn 003A W01001525 345 Wales (ranks 381-570) Torfaen Abersychan 2 002B W01001483 303

Torfaen Upper Cwmbran 4 009E W01001539 266 Torfaen Pontnewynydd 004C W01001523 229 Torfaen Fairwater (Torfaen) 1 011A W01001497 243 Torfaen Wainfelin 2 004F W01001541 170 Torfaen Trevethin 2 003D W01001531 286 Torfaen Brynwern 004A W01001491 255 Torfaen Pontnewydd 4 007D W01001522 230 Torfaen Llantarnam 3 010A W01001506 167 Torfaen Abersychan 4 002D W01001485 211 Torfaen Pontnewydd 3 007C W01001521 236 Torfaen Panteg 3 006C W01001516 187 30% - 50% most deprived in Torfaen Blaenavon 3 001C W01001489 212 Wales (ranks Torfaen Snatchwood 003B W01001529 257 571-950) Torfaen Blaenavon 1 001A W01001487 259 Torfaen Abersychan 5 002E W01001486 235 Torfaen Llantarnam 1 013A W01001504 353 Torfaen Pontnewydd 2 007B W01001520 291 Torfaen New Inn 2 005B W01001511 211 Torfaen Two Locks 3 012C W01001534 208 Torfaen Croesyceiliog North 1 008A W01001493 261 Torfaen Fairwater (Torfaen) 3 011C W01001499 177 Torfaen Pontypool 004D W01001524 219 Torfaen New Inn 1 005A W01001510 202 Torfaen Two Locks 4 012D W01001535 158 Torfaen Abersychan 3 002C W01001484 264 Torfaen Panteg 2 006B W01001515 186 Torfaen Coed Eva 012A W01001492 435 Torfaen Blaenavon 4 001D W01001490 231 Torfaen Croesyceiliog North 2 008B W01001494 223 Torfaen Panteg 4 006D W01001517 430 50% least deprived in Torfaen Upper Cwmbran 2 007E W01001537 142 Wales (ranks Torfaen Llanyrafon South 1 013C W01001508 130 951-1896) Torfaen Panteg 1 006A W01001514 132 Torfaen Wainfelin 1 004E W01001540 203 Torfaen Greenmeadow 2 011E W01001502 196 Torfaen Llanyrafon South 2 013D W01001509 59 Torfaen Llanyrafon North 008D W01001507 295 Torfaen Panteg 5 006E W01001518 186 Torfaen Llantarnam 2 013B W01001505 260 Torfaen New Inn 3 005C W01001512 117 Torfaen Two Locks 2 012B W01001533 232 Torfaen New Inn 4 005D W01001513 194 Torfaen Croesyceiliog South 008C W01001495 244 Torfaen Fairwater (Torfaen) 4 011D W01001500 168

The Local Authority keeps records of the number of children E3 living in rural areas:

Rural Ward: Rural Rural Ward: School Llanyrafon East & Ward: Blaenavon Ponthir Two Locks Blaenavon Heritage VC Primary 470 0 1 Blenheim Road Primary 0 0 29 Coed Eva Primary 0 0 85 Croesyceiliog Primary 0 8 11 Cwmffrwdoer Primary 2 0 0 Cwmbran RC Primary 0 3 26 Garnteg Primary 17 0 0 Greenmeadow Primary 0 0 20 George Street Primary 2 0 0 Griffithstown Primary 2 0 0 Henllys CIW Primary 0 0 69 Llantarnam Community Primary 0 3 13 Llanyrafon Primary 0 26 27 Maendy Primary 0 0 8 Nant Celyn Primary 2 1 140 New Inn Primary 5 0 5 Padre Pio RC Primary 7 0 0 Penygarn Primary 2 0 0 Ponthir Primary 0 55 1 Pontnewydd Primary 3 0 14 St Davids Primary 2 2 8 Woodlands Primary 0 0 12 Ysgol Bryn Onnen 62 0 0 Ysgol Gymraeg Cwmbran 4 2 47 Ysgol Panteg 2 0 5 Abersychan Comprehensive 256 0 0 Croesyceiliog Comprehensive 0 41 87 Cwmbran High Comprehensive 2 5 192 St Alban’s RC High 50 4 76 West Monmouth Comprehensive 10 0 4 Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw 41 3 34 Total

Actions for Matter E

Matter E: To continue to provide all open access play B,D,E,I Core, Town & Charges provision free of charge Community Council for play Families First provision Anti-Social Behaviour Fund To ensure that the play & recreational D,E,G,I Core workforce has a good understanding of the effects of poverty.

To provide free healthy snacks on all D,E,I Town & Community playscheme sites Councils

To support families experiencing or at risk of B,D,E,G,I Welsh Government poverty by providing the School Holiday Enrichment Program at designated locations within the summer holidays (Learn, Laugh & Get Active Camps) (Summer 2019 – 5 Camps)

Family Play Sessions

MATTER F: ACCESS TO SPACE AND PROVISION

Each year, Torfaen Council continues to create additional walking and cycling routes as part of the Safe Routes in Communities schemes and Active Travel schemes. This work progressively improves connectivity and the network coverage in the community. Road safety education and training provides information and helps develop personal skills assisting children in making safe decisions when walking and cycling.

The council has an established procedure for requesting road closures and has actively promoted awareness of the procedure for past major events such as the Olympic Torch relay, Queen’s Jubilee celebration, Velothon etc. This includes an “Info pack” downloadable from the Council’s website. Road closure requests are considered by Highways for any/all community events, including the relevant legislation to support each application. Each event is considered on its merit for community benefit and, where considered appropriate, an event would be permitted. Special events “Info pack “now on Council website.

It is integral that the council works together with partners to create safer routes around the community. In 2018, the Play Service artistically enhanced a number of subways and walkways throughout Torfaen to encourage safer routes to play.

As well as looking at access to space, the assessment also looked at access to information. Information relating to play and play provision is widely available through a multitude of sources. This includes the local authority’s website, Family Information

Service as well as the Play Services social media pages. The concept of play is also promoted widely through community events. In 2018, the play service supported over 40 community events in Torfaen promoting play and signposting families to provisions and projects.

The Play Lending Library acts as an active resource for play and is well utilised by the providers of community events. The Family Information Service outreach team also attends community events and functions promoting play and staffed play and recreational provision to families.

A significantly large audience who support children’s play is engaged with through social media channels. This includes distributing information relating to play, provision, hints for parents/carers, job opportunities as well as play support and advice. Social media has become the biggest platform for engaging with the public and a strong following for Torfaen Play Service has developed over the last 5 years. Over 2,800 people follow Torfaen Play Services Facebook page which was nominated for a National Award for promoting play in 2017. Torfaen will continue to link with partners to reach a wider audience across social media channels to ensure that play remains championed as a key priority.

Finally, the Play Service engages regularly with the media to encourage the positive portrayal of children playing in the local area.

Matter F: Action Plan

Matter F: To promote the cycling and walking C,F,I Core Access to routes to children and young people space/provision in Torfaen To create a multi-agency focus C,F,H,I Core group to look at implementing the” Street Play “initiative in Torfaen To continue to provide a designated B,C,D,E,F,G.H,I Core area on both the local authorities website, Family Information Service and the Play Services social media page to promote the benefits of play, play provision, recruitment, safeguarding and protecting play, helpful hints for parents/carers etc. To continue to work with partners to C,F,H,I Grant promote safe routes to play around Funded the community by artistically enhancing the subways and walkways around communities.

To continue to work in line with B,C,D,E,F,H,I Core existing TCBC practice in relation to Traffic and Transport Initiatives

MATTER G: SECURING AND DEVELOPING THE WORKFORCE

Torfaen Play Service keeps up to date information regarding the play workforce across the Local Authority. This includes the number of playworkers, playwork management structure, qualification levels, training opportunities and volunteers. The training audit is updated quarterly and information is held on term time staff as well as a large seasonal workforce of 267 people. This includes over 160 volunteers.

In relation to Out of School Childcare settings, an annual training audit and qualification review is sent out to all early years’ settings including out of school childcare. Once completed it is returned to Workforce Development. It is also monitored by the Childcare Development Officers and the Flying Start Advisory team.

Qualifications are available through the Early Years Sector to enable workers to achieve the recognised qualifications. Torfaen Training is currently working in partnership with Clybiau Plant Cymru to train workers in Level 2 & Level 3 Playwork qualifications. Level 1 in Playwork is delivered by the local authorities play team.

Training Audit of Play Workforce

A recent audit carried out in February 2019 detailed the current Play Service workforce and the qualifications held linked to five subject areas.

Playwork Level 1 – 139 Level 2 – 2

Level 3 – 9

Level 6 – 1

Play Ranger Awareness – 9

Play Ranger Level 2 – 1

161 workers / volunteers hold Playwork Qualifications

Early Years / Level 1 – 7 Childcare Level 2 – 8

Level 3 – 16

Level 5 – 2

Level 6 - 3

Masters – 2

38 workers / volunteers hold Early Years or Childcare Qualifications

Youthwork Level 2 – 3 Level 3 – 2

Level 4 – 2

Level 5—0

Level 6 - 3

10 workers / volunteers hold Youthwork Qualifications

Sport Level 1 – 0 Level 2 – 0

Level 3 – 1

Level 4 - 1

Level 5 – 1

Level 6 - 7

Masters - 1

11 workers / volunteers hold Sports Qualifications

Education / Level 1 – 0 Teaching Level 2 – 3 Qualification Level 3 – 4

Level 4—0

Level 5 – 0

Level 6 - 6

Masters – 1

PGCE - 2

16 workers / volunteers hold education / Teaching Qualifications

An officer within the play team is responsible for the co-ordination of training needs for the play workforce which is based within Education. This includes both paid workers and volunteers. A training needs analysis is updated regularly in relation to both term time and summer staff. A large section of the training audit relates to ensuring that workers are trained in the relevant areas to support children and young people with disabilities, coupled with play training, corporate training, safeguarding, Prevent, first aid and food hygiene.

The training offered to the workforce reflects the skills and knowledge needed to work as a playworker within a variety of settings. All workers and volunteers’ complete and in-depth training week which consists of over 40 different modules to equip the staff with the necessary skills. Torfaen Play Service also coordinates the summer training program for both Monmouthshire Council and Blaenau Gwent's Councils summer play workforce.

In relation to Early Years, Workforce Development provides a variety of training courses through the EYDCP training programme including continual professional development. Examples include: - Play for Older Children, Arts and Crafts, Outdoor and Risky Play. Some training is also passed onto settings through outside agencies.

Play Awareness sessions are delivered by the local authorities play team to professionals, decision makers and elected members as well as residents and

community groups. Previous sessions and seminars delivered have influenced decisions linked to play as well as raised its profile.

Matter G: To ensure that all workers and volunteers D,G,I Core Securing and are trained to work in community play Town & Community developing the settings including meeting safeguarding & Council workforce health and safety requirements Social Care & Housing Families First To ensure that all workers and volunteers D,G,I Core complete an induction and code of conduct To ensure that all workers and volunteers B,C,D,G,H Core have a good understanding of children’s ,I rights - Participation Standards Kitemark for Wales To continue to keep a training audit on D,G Core staff and volunteers Training needs analysis kept on both the B,D,G,I Core term time and summer play workforce for Flying Start open access Play Provisions & Early Years Provision To continue to ensure that all play & early G,D Core years staff receive regular work-based Flying Start supervision and that their learning needs are supported. To deliver quarterly information share G, D, I Core network meetings for grassroots workers linked to play, leisure, education, sport, early years, youth, culture, uniformed groups etc To continue to work with partners to D,G,I Core provide work-based placements for play Torfaen Training trainees and apprentices To continue to work with partners to D,G Core deliver level 1,2 & 3 Playwork Torfaen Training Qualifications Grant Funding To provide play awareness sessions to G,H,I Core partners, professionals, elected members & Town and Community Council

Matter H: Community Engagement and Participation.

Play on the Playground Project

The local authorities Play Service actively supports the community to engage, enhance and promote children’s play. By supporting communities to develop play provision and play events, the play team encourages communities to take a key role in children’s play.

Early Years as well as the Play Service engage with community events such as Cwmbran Big Event and Pontypool Party in the Park etc. The regular Play Sufficiency Action Group and EYDCP also disseminates any information through its membership. Flying Start childcare providers also arrange Family Fun sessions where families can come together to specifically play. This is in addition to their childcare sessions.

Training in play awareness is available from the local authorities play service for community residents and families. Equipment to promote play for community events is available to hire through the Play Lending Library. The Family Play Sessions provided by the Play Service have gone from strength to strength with over 200 families registered with the sessions. The sessions provide a safe staffed environment for families to play together.

Consultation with children and young people is integral in the planning and delivery of all play provision and indeed when promoting the concept of play within the community. The Play Service currently leads on all consultation which affects children and young people in the borough. This then allows for play to be considered

35 as key aspect where relevant. A wide variety of mechanisms are used to consult with children and young people which allows them to put their views and opinions across in a friendly and affective manner. This includes interactive workshops, games and art.

Matter H Action Plan

Matter H: To actively support and promote C,D,H,I Core Community community play events Grant engagement and participation To work with partners to promote D,H,I Core volunteering opportunities for young people

To create an annual video as an active B,C,D,E,F,G,H,I Core promotion tool to raise awareness of play and play provision To pay recognition to all play volunteers D, B,H,I Core by providing an Annual Volunteers Awards Ceremony To pay recognition to the summer D,B,H,I Core workforce by holding an End of Summer Awards Ceremony. To increase the delivery of play F,H,I Core awareness sessions to residents and professionals To work with partners to promote the C,D,F,H,I Core importance of outdoor play to parents/carers and the wider community To engage with the wider community B,C,D,E,F,G,H,I Core through social media promoting positive images of play, useful resources and top tips. To consult both regularly and widely with B,C,D,E,F, H,I Core children, young people, general public etc. on play and play related issues.

Matter I: Play within all Relevant Policy and Implementation Agendas

Torfaen County Borough Councils Well-Being Plan recognises the importance of play and contributes to the provision of rich play opportunities. Schools in Torfaen ensure that children are provided with a rich play environment for breaks during the school day. To compliment this, the Play on the Playground Project overseen by the Play Service is promoted to be delivered in Primary schools across Torfaen. The Play Service provides 12 sessions of the Play on the Playground Project each week in different primary schools. The Play Service also provides teaching staff with training on the importance of play and ideas for play activities. Over 70 teaching staff and Mid-Day Supervisors will be trained in 2019 in the importance of play and play related training.

The Local Transport Plan recognises the importance of local streets and roads in enabling children to reach designated play venues.

Early Years and Flying Start plans and services recognise the importance of play and contribute to the provision of rich play opportunities for younger children.

The Families First programme and Family Support initiatives recognises the importance of play and contributes to the provision of rich play opportunities. Torfaen’s Local Development Plan recognises and addresses the outdoor play needs of children of various age groups and abilities.

Health and Safety policies and procedures incorporate the risk-benefit approach to health and safety assessments as recommended by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

Mater I: Action Plan Matter I: Play To work with partners to develop I,H, Core within all relevant a “Tech Free” campaign for policy and families implementation agendas

To continue to support schools to D,I Core ensure that play remains a key Schools priority within the school day by providing play awareness training to lunch time supervisors and teaching staff. To continue to deliver the play on the playground project and early bird play sessions. To continue to provide outreach C,D,E,F,H,I Anti-Social Behaviour play sessions in targeted Fund communities as a diversion for Anti-Social behaviour.

To continue to ensure that Play A,B,C,D,E,F,G, Core remains a priority throughout all H,I, relevant strategic agendas To continue to ensure that the C,F,I Core Local Development Plan and Local Transport Plan take in consideration the play needs and play habits of children and young people in Torfaen. To provide Adverse Childhood B,D,G,H,I Core Experiences Awareness Training to all play workers and volunteers To provide a range of specialist B,D,H,I Families First play related provision linked to Families First including – Play & Respite Sessions, Dad & Me Forum, Lego Club, Play & Wellbeing Sessions and Family Play Sessions. To continue to strengthen the links between play and Families First via he the disability strand as well as Lead Worker/ Team Around the Family process. To provide support to pupils on B,D,E,I Early Intervention modified timetables through the fund Play & Enhancement Project To work with partners to increase D,I Core health and wellbeing in children Town & Community and young people by partaking in Council the “Daily Mile” on half term and Families First summer Playschemes

Summary of Consultation Findings for Play Sufficiency Assessment

Introduction

The local authorities Play Team led on all aspects of consultation for the play sufficiency assessment. To ensure that a well-rounded response of views and opinions were collated, we ensured that a wide scope of groups, services and communities were consulted with. In addition to this, we made sure that geographically, we were covering as many wards within the borough as possible.

A variety of consultation methods were utilised with some proving more effective than others. For each of the different groups we consulted with, a set of questions were created. All very similar questions and topics were used for the consultation but they differed depending on which group we were consulting with to fit their needs and priorities.

All consultation was available in both English and Welsh whether it be a survey, seminar or interactive workshop. The results of the consultation contributes heavily to shaping the future play sufficiency action plan for Torfaen.

In total, 2731 people took part in the Play Sufficiency Assessment consultation.

Children 986 Young People 186 General Public 1431 Play, Leisure, Sport, Youth, Culture, Early Year & Recreational Workforce 71 Partners 41 Elected Members & Town and Community Council 16

The following charts detail a summary of consultation findings for each specific group. These findings are taken from 6 significantly large consultation documents which detail the full findings.

Children (up to 12 years)

Our biggest engagement had to be with children as they are the “play experts”. Within this section of the consultation we were looking at children up to 12 years old. We began collating children’s views in April 2018 with a series of consultation sessions within play clubs. We then consulted with the children who attended the summer Playschemes in Torfaen. More recently, we carried out further, more in-depth consultation which consisted of two strands. We created small booklets called – “My Torfaen – A happy and healthy place to play”. These booklets asked the children about their play habits, barriers to play and other play related issues. These booklets were widely disseminated across schools, play provision, leisure provision and were also available online. Secondly, we also created a consultation workshop based on the booklet to be delivered in primary schools. 12 primary schools took place in the workshop which was delivered through group discussions, games and art. In total 986 children were consulted with.

What the children’s consultation told us?

31% of the children choose electronic devices as their favorite toy/ equipment to play with 69% choosing an alternative. 33% said that they felt adults thought play was important, 67% felt that they didn’t 86% of the children consulted attend out of school activities or clubs. – e.g. play, sport, leisure ,uniformed groups or culture provision 69% of the children consulted attend a play club or playscheme 43% of children felt that they had enough time to play, 57% didn’t 60% of children were allowed to play outside in the community without an adult 44% of children had concerns or worries about playing outside in their community. The biggest fear for children playing outside was Bullies with 30% of the vote. Strangers had 24%, Teenagers & Gangs had 13%, Dogs 9%, Traffic 10%, Falling Over 3%, Drugs 3%, Homeless 2% Other 6%. 37% of the children consulted had been told off or asked to move on when playing in the community 66% of children consulted liked to play with their friends the most followed by their family at 12% When asked where you can play in your community 37% said the local park followed by 14% who said their garden When asked how we can make your community better to play in? 28% of the responses linked to improving or increasing the number of parks and play areas. Other response linked to making the community safer, more lights, less rubbish and making the roads less busy etc. A wide response of answers were provided in relation to how we can improve individual parks and play areas including more parks or better equipment. A wide response was provided from the individual school’s workshops on how individual school playgrounds can be improved or adapted.

How are the children’s views and opinions shaping the action plan for Torfaen?

To continue to provide a wide variety of staffed play provision across the borough (over 100 different play related projects) To continue to work closely with partners to create safer communities for play To continue to provide a wide variety of leisure, sport, youth and culture provision across the borough To work closely with the partners to deliver staffed outreach provision within targeted areas To continue to ensure that parks and play areas are monitored and expected regularly in line with standards. To increase the delivery of play awareness sessions to residents and professionals

Young People – 11 – 25 years.

To consult with young people we created an online survey using Survey Monkey. This survey was shared widely on social media and with partners. In addition to this, we provided paper surveys and linked in with Sports Development and the Youth Service to capture the views of the young people attending their provisions. Finally, we also linked in with the Inspire to Achieve Team, Torfaen Training, Torfaen Opportunity Group and the Enhancement Project to gain the views of young people. The survey was also available on the Torfaen Citizen Website. In total 186 young people took part in the survey.

What the results of the Young Peoples Survey told us? When asked where young people “hang out” in the community 43% stated the Shops, 33% the Park, 6% Youth Club and 18% stated Other which included playing fields, nowhere to go, in the house and places that are dry etc. 13% of the young people who completed the survey stated they had been regularly told off or asked to move on when in the community. 31% stated that they have sometimes been told off or asked to move on. 66% said they had never been told off or asked to move on. Strangers were the biggest concern for young people in the community with 27%. Bullies had 20%, Other young people 15%, Traffic 14%, Nothing 14%, Dogs and Other both at 5%. Other comments included Drugs, Homeless, Being Mugged, Drunk & Disorderly etc. When asked how do you travel around the community, 32% of the young people said “On foot” followed closely by Parents Car at 24% 7% of those completing the survey regularly used the cycling or walking routes around Torfaen. 12% have used them sometimes and 81% have never used them. 19% of those completing the survey attend a Sports or Leisure provision (Football, Netball, Rugby, Running Club etc.) 8% of those completing the survey attend a culture provision (Drama, Art, Welsh Language etc.) 14% of those completing the survey attend a youth provision (Youth club, Youth Project or ( Youth club, Youth Project or Youth Forum) 7% of those completing the survey attend a uniformed group (Scouts, Guides, Cadets, and St Johns Ambulance etc.) 49% of the 186 young people who completed the survey are volunteers in a volunteer project 3% of those completing the survey did not engage in any provisions or projects. A large range of responses were gathered in relation to how we can improve the parks and play areas. This included fixing broken equipment as well as catering for teens as well as young children, making them safer etc.

How the views of young people have helped shape the Action Plan for Torfaen

To work with partners to develop a number of junior youth provisions in targeted areas

To continue to work with partners to create safer communities To work with partners to promote the walking and cycling paths across Torfaen to young people To continue to work with partners to provide a program of sport, leisure, youth, art and culture provisions for young people To continue to deliver and promote the Play Volunteer Project for young people aged 16 plus To continue to deliver and promote the Play Helper Project for young people aged 13 – 15 years To work with partners to promote volunteering opportunities for young people. To work with partners in relation to planning and developing parks and play areas, taking in consideration the play needs of young people.

Play & Enhancement Project

General Public To collate information from the public we created surveys which were available online on Torfaen’s Citizen Website. We also gave out surveys at community events, schools, community groups, and play clubs. Finally, we utilized the power of social media to consult with the public. In total we collected the views from 1431 members of the public.

What the results of the Public Survey told us?

62% of the public agreed to the removal of “no ball game signs” where relevant 89% agreed to exploring the “Street Play” initiative in Torfaen (road closures for short periods of time for play events/ non regular play sessions – once or twice a year – only suitable road closures) 36% of the public who completed the survey felt their community was safe for children to play in When asked what concerns you have in relation to children playing outside in the community Traffic came out as the biggest concern with 41%, Strangers and Anti-Social both on 23%, and Bullies on 13% A mixed but wide range of responses were provided in relation to individual parks and how they can be improved. Issues raised included lighting, better equipment, maintenance increased, fencing etc. 55% of the public stated that their children regularly access the parks and play areas in Torfaen. 14% of the public felt that children had the same play experiences today as they did, this was predominantly linked to reliance on technology and the community not being safe to play in as well as a decline in play space. The Park & Shops were highlighted as the most popular places for children and young people to play or hang out in the community. A wide range of feedback was provided linked to play provision in Torfaen (90% positive feedback) negative feedback includes a demand for longer playschemes in holiday times for working parents/carers. Provisions were shortened in 2014 due to a change in the law. Young Staff A wide range of feedback was provided linked to sports provision. (70% positive) negative feedback linked to the cost of activities and a lack of knowing where they are. A wide range of feedback was provided on culture provision (65% positive) negative feedback linked to lack of Welsh Language provision, Lack of promotion and cost. A wide range of feedback was provided on Youth provision (30% positive) negative feedback linked to lack of provision, lack of promotion A wide range of feedback was provided on Uniformed Groups (90% positive) negative feedback linked to lack of promotion and a need for provision in certain areas. A wide range of feedback was provided on Volunteer Opportunities for young people (70% positive) negative feedback linked to limited placements only Torfaen Play and the Greenmeadow Community Farm known 45% of the public look for information linked to staffed provision for children on Social Media, 24% Schools, 16% Family Information Service and 15% the Internet. 43% of the public who took part in the survey felt that children had enough “free play” time within the school day. 92% felt it was important for children to experience both physical and emotional risks whilst playing 82% of Parents / Carers with children under the age of 11 years allow them to access screen time on a daily basis.

How the public’s views and opinions shape the action plan for Torfaen

To implement a two-tier request process to remove “No Ball Game “Signs where appropriate

To create a multi-agency focus group to look at implementing the” Street Play “initiative in Torfaen To continue to work with partners to create safer communities To continue to inspect and maintain parks and play areas in line with standards To develop a “Safe Places to Play “section on the local authorities’ website To work with partners to develop a “Tech Free” campaign for families To utilize the feedback provided by the public to influence the future provision of play, sport, youth, culture and uniformed groups in Torfaen. To continue to provide a wide range of volunteering opportunities linked to community play provisions To work with partners to collaboratively promote volunteering opportunities for young people.

To continue to engage widely with the public through social media.

The Workforce (Play, Leisure, Sport, Early Years, Youth, Culture and Recreational Providers)

The Play and Recreational Workforce We held a workshop to consult with the “grassroots workers” from play, leisure, sport, culture, recreation, youth and early years. This included both volunteers and paid workers. It also included representatives from the local authority, third sector and private sector. Over 70 people attended the event to put their views and opinions forward. Topics discussed within the session included: - play space and play areas, play habits, Inclusion, Information and participation as well as staffed provision. Additionally, some of the key themes that have come up through consultation with children and young people were also discussed. Number consulted 71

What did the consultation with the Workforce tell us?

The Play and Recreational Workforce had a good knowledge of where children play and “hang out” in Torfaen. The Play and Recreational Workforces concerns for children playing outside were similar to that of the children’s concerns highlighting a good knowledge of children’s play habits

The majority of workers believed that children today were not having the same play experiences as they did as children. This was due to the decline in children playing outside linked to safety concerns as well as a change in play habits linked to electronic devices. It highlighted a need for a more joined up approach to find out what other services provide and deliver from a grassroots perspective

The Welsh language was promoted broadly across most service areas however; there was a lack of fluent Welsh speakers across all areas.

Social media was highlighted as the best way to engage with the public to promote provision.

How has this impacted our action plan?

To deliver quarterly information share network meetings for grassroots workers linked to play, leisure, education, sport, early years, youth, culture, uniformed groups etc.

To implement a joined up approach to accessing training for grassroots workers To work with partners to increase the number of welsh speaking volunteers and workers linked to play and recreational provision.

Elected Members and Town and Community Council

We delivered a Workshop in November for elected members and town and community councils. The workshop outlined the purpose of the assessments as well as the 9 areas covered within the assessment. We devised a series of questions to ask Councilors relating to the key themes of the assessment as well as some of the issues that were being raised through the consultation process. For the members who were unable to attend, an electronic version of the workshop was sent out to be completed. 16 responses received either verbally or electronic. We are also aware that a number of additional Councilors also took part in the Public Polls on Social Media

What the results of the Elected Members and Town and Community Council consultation told us?

A high percentage felt that children today are not having the enriched childhood experiences as previous decades A number of barriers were listed in relation to children and young people playing and hanging out in their community including Lack of Play Space, Traffic and Lack of Tolerance Acknowledgement was made to children’s reliance on “hand held devices” It was suggested that an increase in support for parents/carers linked to healthy and safe play experiences A lack of community provision for youth/ older children A number of concerns / Issues raised linked to static play areas and parks. It was noted that a more joined up approach across services in relation to promotion of provision could benefit the wider community Larger (or more) pieces of static play equipment in new housing developments proved more beneficial than just implementing 2 or 3 small pieces of equipment

How the views and opinions of the Elected Members and Town Community Council will help shape the action plan for Torfaen

To work with partners to promote the importance of outdoor play to parents/carers and the wider community To continue to work with partners to create safe communities To work with partners to develop a “Tech Free” campaign for families To develop a “Safe Places to Play “section on the local authorities’ website To continue to inspect and maintain parks and play areas in line with standards To work with partners to explore the delivery of junior youth provision in targeted areas. To continue to support partners with Torfaen’ s Open Space Assessment

Consulting with Partners We were keen to ensure that all our partners were involved in the consultation process for the play sufficiency assessment. As well the grass roots workers consultation we also put together a consultation proforma for partners to complete. All members for the Play Sufficiency Monitoring Group were asked to partake in the consultation as well as representatives from other agencies and services linked to working with children and young people, parks and open spaces. In total we received 41 responses.

What the results of the Partners consultation told us? Partners recognise the importance of play and are very supportive in championing children’s right to play Partners listed a number of barriers to children and young people playing or hanging out in the community including parental fears, lack of safe places to play, anti-social behaviour and a reliance on technology. Partners felt that we could encourage more outdoor play by working collaboratively to provide safe places for young people to hang out. In addition to this, to work with communities to break down barriers to outdoor play The majority of partners felt that children today were not having the same enriched childhood experiences as they did. Partners felt that support should be in place for parents and carers to limit the time spent on “handheld devices” The “removal of no ball game signs” provided a mixed response. The majority stating that they should be removed if totally not needed and no negative effect will implement on the community. Larger (or more) pieces of static play equipment in new housing developments proved more beneficial than just implementing 2 or 3 small pieces of equipment

How the views and opinions of the partner’s survey will shape the action plan for Torfaen To deliver quarterly information share network meetings for grassroots workers linked to play, leisure, education, sport, early years, youth, culture, uniformed groups etc. To work with partners to promote the importance of outdoor play to parents/carers and the wider community To continue to work with partners to create safe communities To work with partners to develop a “Tech Free” campaign for families To develop a “Safe Places to Play “section on the local authorities’ website To continue to support partners with Torfaen’ s Open Space Assessment A greater promotion of services and provision for children and young people in Torfaen To set up a working group to implement a two tier request process to remove “ No Ball Game “ Signs

Comparative Findings

Safety concerns Children 44% stated they had worries or concerns about playing out in their community Public 36% felt their community was unsafe for children to play in

Children Bullies 30%, Strangers 24%, Teenagers & Gangs 13%, Dogs 9%, Traffic 10%, Falling Over 3%, Drugs 3%, Homeless 2% Other 6%. Young People Strangers 27%, Bullies 20%, Other Young People 15%, Traffic 14%, Nothing 14%, Dogs 5% and Other 5%. Other comments included Drugs, Homeless, Being Mugged, Drunk & Disorderly etc. Public Traffic 41%, Strangers 23% Anti-Social 23%, Bullies 13%

Children 37% had been told off when playing or hanging out in the community Young People 44% had been told off when playing or hanging out in the community

Play Habits Children 69% choose an alternative to electronic devices as their favorite toy or play activity Public 82% of parents / Carers with children under the age of 11 years allow them to access screen time on a daily basis.

Children 86% attend an out of school activity, group or club Young People 47% attend an out of school activity, group or club