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Play

Parks and Open Spaces

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Play

Photograph of the play park at Marine Gardens, Carrickfergus

Mid and East Antrim is a haven for young children and it’s packed with safe, secure play areas for them to unleash their energy.

Play is an essential part of every child's life and is vital for the enjoyment of childhood as well as social, emotional, intellectual and physical development. When children are asked about what they think is important in their lives, playing and friends is usually at the top of the list.

Out to Play Pledge

The ‘Out to Play Pledge’ sets out our commitment to the children and young people of Mid and East Antrim Borough. The Pledge was developed in recognition of UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (Article 31). Generally, it sets out what we will do for children and young people, how we intend to achieve this and it also recognises the importance of play internationally.

In our words, Council will ensure that play spaces and activities here in Mid and East Antrim Borough are planned in a way that ensures all children and young people, of all ages, can take part, learn, find new friends and have fun.

We will...

  • listen to your thoughts and ideas when planning our work;
  • provide clean, safe and welcoming play spaces for you, your family and friends;
  • provide different types of play equipment for you to enjoy;
  • assist your parents, carers and others to provide play opportunities for you;
  • celebrate and embrace our difference;
  • get everyone healthier by offering different play activities;
  • provide indoor and outdoor space for you enjoyment;
  • make sure that our play spaces offer something for all ages and abilities;
  • provide a range of play activity programmes for everyone;
  • speak up for you if you feel your right to play is being taken away.

We will achieve this by...

  • talking to you, your parents and your friends and neighbours;
  • working with playgroups, schools and youth clubds to provide activities;
  • always checking to make sure we are doing it right.

We recognise that...

  • play is important for making friends, learning and staying healthy;
  • play can happen anywhere;
  • play in safety should be available to all;
  • play doesn't always need to have special equipment;
  • some kids like organised play activity programmes;
  • play doesn't have to cost money;
  • grown-ups can be kids too and it keeps them healthier and young;
  • our play spaces are for everyone.
  

Children's Right to Play

The right to play and informal recreation, for all children and young people up to 18 years of age, is enshrined in Article 31 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, ratified by the UK government in 1991. The government has a duty under this convention to protect and promote play opportunities for all children and young people.

Important Information

All Play Parks are open from Dawn to Dusk. The equipment in our Play Parks are suitable for children aged 3 to 12 years old only. All children should be closely supervised by an adult at all times.

For further information on any Play Park or if you wish to report any damage, abuse or incidents, please contact the Parks & Open Spaces Service on T: 0300 124 5000.

Our Play Park Locations

Toxocariasis

Dog faeces can pose a significant health risk to humans, particularly young children as their immune systems are not fully developed. Children are also more likely to come into contact with soil or sand that contains dog faeces whilst playing in parks, gardens and playgrounds. All faeces contain bacteria that can cause stomach upsets, but the greatest risk is from toxocariasis.

Toxocariasis is particularly hazardous to small children as it can result in blindness.

You might have heard of Toxocariasis, but do you know exactly what it is and how to prevent it?

Even if you don't have a pet, make sure you're aware of the risks.

For further information download our Toxocariasis Information Sheet.