Wandsworth’s Year of Play begins

With £15 million set to be invested over the next three years to improve playgrounds and play spaces, including more than 15 new or refurbished play sites opening in the next 12 months, and a series of exciting events, Wandsworth’s Year of Play marks a bold commitment to ensuring everyone has equal opportunity to play. Guided by the council’s Play Strategy, the Year of Play will create inclusive, high-quality play opportunities in every neighbourhood, ensuring all children can enjoy enriching experiences close to home. 

“My favourite thing is when everyone plays together,” said Jessica, age 10. “It’s really cool having fun stuff near where I live. Me and my friends can go after school and just enjoy being together and being outside.” 

The Year of Play is also a key part of Wandsworth’s London Borough of Culture 2025 programme, celebrating the power of creativity, community and connection. Through play, families will be brought together in joyful, imaginative and meaningful ways that reflect the borough’s rich cultural life. 

Judi Gasser, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said: “Play is where childhood happens. It’s how children learn, grow and discover who they are. Through our Year of Play, we’re making a clear commitment that every child in Wandsworth will have the chance to explore, connect and thrive through play. As a parent and a Councillor, I’m really excited about everything planned across the next year.” 

Children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities will benefit from a wide range of improvements, including more accessible playgrounds, expanded short breaks and tailored activities throughout the year. By focusing on accessibility and inclusion, the programme aims to remove barriers and open playful spaces for everyone. 

JohnBoy Smith, Paralympian and gold-medallist at the Commonwealth Games, joined the Fountain of Fun event today. He said: “Play is a universal language that breaks down barriers and builds stronger communities. When every child, regardless of ability, can join in freely, we create a future that’s not only fairer but full of possibility.” 

Exciting events as part of the Year of Play taking place over the next few months include Battersea Park Weekends throughout June and July, the Happy Streets Festival (5 to 6 July), The Big Play Out (28 July), and Enable’s Day of Play (6 August). These and many more activities, all detailed in our Year of Play brochure which highlights our commitment to play and lists activities happening throughout the year, will be open to families across the borough, with lots available to sign up for now. 

A Battersea parent and WAND card holder added: “As a mum of a child with additional needs, I know how important it is to feel welcome and included. The fact that Wandsworth is making play accessible for every child, regardless of ability or income, is life changing.” 

Kelly Ranford, Headteacher at St Anne’s C of E Primary School, said: “We see every day how play fuels imagination, teamwork and confidence. The Year of Play sends a powerful message to children and families that their joy and wellbeing matter and that learning doesn’t stop when the school bell rings.” 

The Year of Play also builds on the council’s wider work to support families and boost wellbeing, including through the Access for All programme, Britain’s best concession scheme, which offers eligible residents 50% to 100% discounts on key council services and local activities. 

In addition, last year, more than 2,500 children, many with special educational needs, joined the Wandsworth Connected holiday programmes. These efforts, alongside the Wandsworth Moves Together campaign, help lay the groundwork for a more active, inclusive and healthier borough.