Easter is the second busiest school holidays of the year for us and the sunshine brought out whole families to our free play sessions across Gloucestershire. Our Rangers delivered 15 play days, supported by our fab and growing band of Young Volunteers. As well as our regular play sites in Stroud, Gloucester, Bourton on the Water, and Bishops Cleeve, we also returned to Nailsworth, Brockworth, Bredon and Winchcombe to catch up with old friends. Some highlights included the University of Gloucestershire’s visit to Ayland Gardens, organising some sports activities and chatting about life at Uni with interested young people from the local Barton area. The Rangers provided a special play afternoon for disabled children and their families at Moreton in Marsh, and campfire breakfasts in Bourton. Lots of families are now migrating around Gloucestershire to take part in our special brand of active and creative play. We also have noticed a growing group of Dads who enjoy spending time with their kids at our play sessions which provide a great place for family bonding!

We’ve had great support from all sorts of organisations including Gloucestershire County Council’s Targeted Support Teams, and the Police with their regular drop ins.

Our Rangers frequently have to deal with tricky situations which this Easter included picking up lots of broken glass on a playground, removing a knife from a young person, picking up dog poo, dealing with behaviour fuelled by energy drinks (hate them!) and supporting children facing difficult situations at home, school and in their community.

We know what we do is important for a happy and healthy childhood and it’s lovely when other people show their support. The Riverford Stroud veg man again donated some lovely organic fruit to Team PG over Easter and we happily munched our way through it during our play days. Big thanks to them for their support!

by Pip Levett, Director of Play

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