The Association of Play Industries (API) welcomes the Chancellor’s announcement of an £18 million investment in playgrounds across the UK.
This funding represents a timely opportunity to reverse the long-term decline in local play provision and restore high-quality spaces that support children’s physical, social and emotional development.
To ensure this investment delivers lasting value for communities, the API urges local authorities to commission only reputable, accountable, and financially robust suppliers. API members are independently vetted and adhere to strict professional standards designed to safeguard both public money and children’s safety.
Key benefits of commissioning an API member include:
- Financial safeguards
- Each API member undergoes checks on financial viability. Guarantees and warranties are only meaningful if the company remains solvent; our vetting process reduces the risk of councils being left with costly problems when a supplier folds.
- Industry-leading Code of Conduct
- All members commit to a Code of Conduct covering safety, quality, transparency, and professional practice. This gives councils confidence that installations will meet high standards and that ethical behaviour is non-negotiable.
- Free mediation service
On the rare occasions that an issue arises, the API provides an independent, free mediation service for customers of API members. This protects councils and ensures concerns are resolved quickly and fairly without additional cost.
With significant public funds now earmarked for new and improved play spaces, it is critical that procurement decisions prioritise quality, accountability, and long-term value. By working with API-accredited companies, local authorities can be confident that playgrounds will be safe, durable, and delivered by organisations committed to best practice.
Dr Amanda Gummer, Chair of the Association of Play Industries explains “£18 million is a welcome and much-needed investment in children’s play, but the impact of this funding will depend entirely on the quality of the spaces it creates.
“Poor workmanship and short-term fixes end up costing councils far more in the long run. By choosing API members, local authorities can be confident they are working with financially sound companies that meet rigorous professional standards and are committed to long-term community benefit.
“Our members are held to a strict Code of Conduct, and we back this with a free mediation service to give councils additional reassurance. This is a real opportunity to get play provision right, and we want to see every penny deliver durable, safe, and high-quality places for children to play.”
