New Accessible Play Equipment
Improving Accessibility and Reducing Inequality in Play Parks
Shetland Islands Council (SIC), along with all local authorities in Scotland were allocated funding from the Scottish Government, assigned to improving play parks. SIC’s Sport and Leisure team decided to focus on making 8 playing parks more accessible throughout the isles. In 2022, the Happyhansel play area in Walls saw an upgrade, and in 2023, the equipment in Lerwick’s King George V Play area has been upgraded. The team partnered with local inclusion charity Ability Shetland for input on the equipment.
It was important to ensure the play areas were integrated, rather than segregated. This meant having the inclusive equipment as part of the park, next to equipment that was already there, so that children of all abilities could play together. Ability Shetland consulted families to find out what would work best. It was reported that disabled children with non-disabled siblings were often left watching their siblings play, unable to get involved. The project aimed to ensure that whole families, and school classes, could enjoy a day out at the play park and that nobody was excluded. It was also important to consider adults; many disabled adults also want to go on swings and enjoy the park amenities.
Three new pieces of equipment were installed, an ability roundabout, a ‘birds’ nest’ swing, and an ability wheelchair swing, all of which can be used by anyone with mobility issues. An accessible picnic bench was also installed, which can be used by anyone in a wheelchair.
Ability Shetland and their holiday clubs frequently use the park, and it has been important for schools and families to have it as a place to go where people can play together. Online comments from community members were positive, including highlighting the difference this would make to wheelchair users or anyone else who needs it; and expressing delight that the park is accessible now.
Ability Shetland and SIC staff involved in the project have commented on the importance of partnership working. Good relationships between partners meant that the project was efficient and expertise was shared. Ability Shetland had relationships with families for consultation, to find out about what equipment would be best, which was integral for the SIC workers coordinating the project. In addition, it was felt by the team that the more amenities that are accessible, it can inspire other facilities in the isles to ensure they are accessible too.
The accessible play park upgrades contributes to the Participation, People and Place priorities. Public agencies and communities are helping to deliver improved outcomes for people across the isles; more people may feel connected to their communities and benefit from living in good places and keeping active; and communities have been involved in shaping positive places that are socially sustainable.