MAP projects

MAP is running a small pilot community playworkers project in 2012, which will entail six or seven outdoor play sessions in each of three areas – Woodburn, Mayfield and Gorebridge. The pilot will also involve engagement with children, families, the wider community and other agencies/organisations. The aim is to learn what works and what doesn’t and evaluate some of the benefits of the project.

The project will use the ‘play rangers’ model of delivery (for example see this Scottish Government news announcement – www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2012/01/play18012012). The project model involves playworkers facilitating play sessions entirely outdoors in public community spaces, to support children to ‘play out’.

The sessions will be free play focused, with play resources that support all types of play experiences. The sessions will promote play with nature and the elements and promote healthy outdoor free play experiences such as den-making and games.

MAP is delighted to have the opportunity to try this out in Midlothian. The sessions will run from after the Easter holidays through to November this year (with a break over summer). Exact sites and days and times are to be confirmed and are subject to ongoing community consultation. There will be opportunities for other organisations and agencies to feed in their views.

If you would like to find out more; be kept in touch with news; feel you could support the project in some way; or would like to contribute your insights, MAP would love to hear from you.