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North Somerset Council’s Better Health team is looking for volunteers to lead regular ParkPlay sessions in Clevedon and Weston-super-Mare.
ParkPlay first launched in the UK in 2021 and happens in parks and public spaces up and down the country every Saturday. Sessions are free and open to people of all ages. The aim is to bring communities together and encourage more people to be active by enjoying free games and activities in a safe, friendly place. Everyone is welcome.
Weekly ParkPlay sessions were launched in North Somerset last year at Castle Batch and Ellenborough Park in Weston-super-Mare and Cherry Avenue Playground in Clevedon.
Now the council’s Better Health North Somerset team is asking potential Play Leaders and volunteers to come forward and help lead the sessions as Cllr Jenna Ho Marris, North Somerset Council’s executive member for public health, explains:
“With spring in the air, now’s a great time to get involved with ParkPlay! It’s also a fantastic opportunity to gain experience of organising and leading community events.
“We’re asking for volunteers to come forward and help run the weekly sessions. You’ll need to be aged 18 or above and you’ll get full training. A rota basis is available so you won’t need to commit to every single week.
“And although we’re looking for volunteers, there may be some paid positions available so please get in touch with us to find out more!”
Becky and her daughter Lottie (pictured) go to the ParkPlay sessions in Ellenborough Park, Weston. Becky said: “Lottie loves ParkPlay and we now go every Saturday whatever the weather. She loves to help Craig the Play Leader set up all the games and help others enjoy them too.”
Luke, a Play Leader at the Castle Batch sessions, added: "Having been a ParkPlayer for a few months when the call went out for people to volunteer, I was more than happy to take up the offer to become a Play Leader. I liked the idea of a free weekly session to help build a community around fun activities for all the family. Seeing the smiles on the faces of ParkPlayers new and old gives me a sense of accomplishment."
To find out more about the Play Leader role email getactive@n-somerset.gov.uk or call 01275 882 731. There is more information about ParkPlay on their website www.park-play.com.
Remember to follow the Better Health North Somerset team on Facebook to stay up to date with their latest news and events: www.facebook.com/betterhealthns.