Wednesday was National Play Day, and I was pleased to speak at the National Play Day event organised by Young Opportunities Solihull and MAPA at Meriden Park and Meriden Adventure Playground. It was a day packed with fun, creativity and community spirit, with a great range of activities and organisations who work with children and young people. This national event is all about the importance of accessible, inclusive spaces where children can play, have fun, and be a part of their community – and that’s something we’re proud to champion in Solihull.
We have some fantastic spaces for children and young people across the borough, such as our fabulous parks, leisure facilities and cultural venues. There’s also our Family Hubs, where a number of great events took place on National Play Day itself. There’s always something going on at the Hubs and with the holidays in full swing, it’s a good time to remind parents and carers to take a look at the activities timetables.
Ahead of National Play Day, I attended the unveiling of a new children’s sensory panel in the play area at Jacey Park. It’s a valuable piece of inclusive and accessible equipment that offers visual engagement and ‘quiet’ play opportunities for children of all abilities. Inclusive and accessible play is important because it ensures that children can fully participate, learn, and thrive. It helps all children develop crucial life skills through interaction and exploration, especially those with disabilities or neurodivergence, and I’m pleased to share that we have just installed another two sensory panels at Elmdon and Hillfield Park. The Friends of Hillfield Park obtained funding from the Veolia Community Environment Fund for the latter, whilst the other two have been funded through the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). I hope children enjoy them.
I also had the chance to visit Solihull Moors for the opening of their new café, Moorish, earlier this week. It’s an excellent volunteer-led project which offers something pitch-side for the fans. Whilst at the stadium, children enjoyed a number of football skills activities including the Solihull Moors Foundation Ability Counts sessions. These are for children with disabilities, the majority of which have either autism or cerebral palsy. As part of the visit, I was able to speak to children who gain so much from these sessions, not only enhancing their football skills, but their confidence, independence and social life. The Foundation does excellent work in the community, and this is another fine example.
On the subject of Solihull Moors, they begin their National League campaign on Saturday at home to Forest Green Rovers. The start of a new season is always exciting and filled with optimism, and I want to wish them good luck for the season ahead.
Next Friday (15 August) marks the 80th anniversary of VJ (Victory over Japan) Day, when Japan announced its surrender to the Allied forces. There will be a national two-minute silence at 12 noon, as well as services on Friday and Sunday morning at The Parish Church of St. James the Great in Shirley, among other events. It will be a day to honour the bravery and sacrifice of those who served in the Far East, and continue to serve in the Armed Forces. It will also be a moment of reflection and community togetherness. I know the Solihull community will – as always – play its part.
On a final note, good luck to all of those taking part in the Solihull Half Marathon and 5k on Sunday!
Thanks for reading and enjoy your weekend.
Karen