New Opportunities Fund (NOF)

Play Review Consultation Day

Report by Susan McColl

Play Review Consultation Day

Facilitated by PLAY SCOTLAND on behalf of the Scottish Executive

This event was held on February 7th at the John McIntyre Centre in Edinburgh.

The conference took the form of four discussion groups which during the day covered fourteen questions - it always amazes me how many people know so much and talk so intelligently about whatever it is and how all this sensible input somehow evaporates by the time it reaches the ground - I don't think there was anyone I met either from a distance or personally within my group who I didn't think had a firm grasp of the importance of play both for children and adults supported by intelligent input as to how, to whom and where the lottery funding should be distributed. However, I felt a certain weariness and cynicism from the many charities who were present as to whether their views are ever really heard or acted upon. The main fear I felt was that the money would be allocated to the local authorities who would spend it without adequate consultation with the raft of experts who actually worked alongside young people.

After lunch, there was a very nice presentation by the children.

All delegates are sent the summary of the responses which will be on the NOF website.

07 Feb 2003