Letter: The game is up for children's play unit

Sir: My colleagues and I were delighted to read the letters from Barbara Rusbridge and Professor John White (23 February), though saddened by the tragic circumstances that prompted them to write.

Yes, play is a vital part of a child's development and through it they learn the all-important social skills of sharing, caring, negotiating and individual responsibility. Play opportunities in our inner cities are severely threatened by the end of urban programme funding, and by local authorities' cuts being enforced on play services across the country. Sadly, play seems to be an easy option to axe when savings have to be made.

Central government recognised the importance of play in 1982, when, following an Early Day Motion signed by 260 MPs, a small national agency was set up to work with play providers. Now, in 1993, the Government is turning away from that responsibility and has announced that funding for this unit will cease at the end of March.

Just another instance of the low status and priority given to children and to one of their basic needs and an integral part of their social development, play.

Yours faithfully,

HILARY WEEDON

Director

Central Services & Liaison

National Children's Play & Recreation Unit

London, NW1

24 February