Play: vision statement and action plan 2025 to 2030

Foreword

The Scottish Government wants every child in Scotland to grow up loved, safe and respected and to fulfil their potential. Play has a critical role in delivering this. I am delighted to publish Scotland’s Play Vision Statement and Action Plan 2025-2030, building on our 2013 national play strategy. It sets out our vision for the future of play in Scotland, and the actions we will take in partnership with our public and third sector partners, to realise that vision.

One of my first events as Minister for Children, Young People and Keeping the Promise was to speak at the International Play Association World Conference, held in Glasgow in the summer of 2023^[1]. I was struck by the passion and dedication that people all across the world showed for play and its benefits for children’s development. The conference impressed upon me the high standing in which Scotland is held internationally when it comes to play.

I was honoured to represent Scotland as the conference showcased the great work done by public and third sector organisations to support play opportunities in Scotland.

Across the country in homes, communities, early learning and childcare settings, schools, and all manner of children’s clubs, groups and activities from professionals and volunteers, we can be proud of the time, resources and care that we dedicate to providing children and young people with the opportunities to play. I am proud too, of the Scottish Government’s investment in play over the years, including our £60m commitment to playpark renewal.

Play, in all its forms, is an integral part of children’s healthy development, learning, physical and mental wellbeing at all ages. Play is recognised as a child’s right in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child but more than that, play can help to process emotions, build coping skills and help us navigate life events. Play is universal, it can connect cultures and generations in the simple act of having fun, creating bonds and memories that can last a lifetime.

I am hugely grateful to colleagues from the public sector, third sector and academia who informed and guided the production of the Vision Statement and Action Plan. Most importantly, I am grateful to children and young people for voicing their views on play in Scotland.

Natalie Don-Innes MSP

Minister for Children, Young People and the Promise