Waltham Forest Council is set to launch a £50,000 'Together We Play' fund to support community play-based activities across the borough. The fund aims to empower residents and community stakeholders by providing access to funding for delivering play-based activities in their local communities.
The initiative was announced at the Council meeting on 17 July 2025, as part of a Labour Group motion on the importance of play. Councillors Kizzy Gardiner, Portfolio Lead Member - Children and Young People, and Rosalind Doré presented the motion, emphasising the crucial role of play in children's development. Details of the motion can be found in the July 25 Labour motion.
The motion recognised that play and creativity are an integral part of childhood and fundamental to the way all children learn, develop, and grow.
The council has resolved to support the Play England campaign on the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) to protect and prioritise play space for children and young people. They will also continue to utilise the proceeds of housing growth to invest in playgrounds and parks, balancing development with the need for accessible play areas. The council also plans to support the campaign to scrap 'No Ball Games' signs on council estates across the borough.
The council has previously invested in play spaces, including £200,000 for Lloyd Park, £250,000 in Drapers Field, and new playgrounds in Wingfield Park and Priory Court. The £8.4 million 'Child-friendly Chingford' programme, including £3.3m in Chase Lane, Memorial Park and Rolls Park, was also highlighted.