Help Shape the Future of Play in Rochford

Stakeholder Consultation

We are developing a new Play Strategy to guide how play opportunities are planned, managed, improved and invested in across Rochford District over the coming years.

The strategy is informed by an assessment of existing play provision across the district, which identified a number of strengths as well as opportunities for improvement. These include variations in play quality, accessibility, inclusion and the range of play experiences available, alongside increasing pressures on funding, maintenance and long-term sustainability.

To help ensure the strategy is practical, deliverable and reflects local needs and priorities, we are seeking feedback from organisations and stakeholders involved in the planning, delivery, management or support of play opportunities for children and young people across Rochford District.

This may include housing associations, parish councils, community and voluntary organisations, play providers, schools, developers and other partner organisations.

What We're Asking

We would like your views on:

• Current play provision across the district
• Safety, maintenance and site quality
• Opportunities to improve the range and quality of play experiences
• Accessibility, inclusion and provision for underrepresented groups
• Future investment priorities and funding approaches
• Partnership working and opportunities for collaboration
• How organisations can help support the long-term sustainability of play provision

This consultation focuses on the strategic direction of play provision across the district, rather than individual play areas. More detailed engagement may take place separately where site-specific improvements are proposed.

How Your Feedback Will Be Used

Your feedback will help inform the final Play Strategy and support future decisions on:

• Investment and funding priorities
• Maintenance and improvement programmes
• Accessibility and inclusion initiatives
• Partnership working arrangements
• The future development of play opportunities across Rochford District

How to Take Part

The consultation will run from 3 August to 14 September.

You can take part by:

• Completing the online survey
• Requesting a paper copy/phone completion

Please answer the questions that are most relevant to your organisation and experience. You do not need to answer every question. There is also an opportunity at the end of the survey to provide any additional comments or suggestions.

Need Help Taking Part?

If you require assistance:

• Request a paper survey from Rochford Library, Roche Close, Rochford, SS4 1PX
• Email customer.services@rochford.gov.uk to request a survey by post

Thank you for helping shape the future of play provision across Rochford District.