Bath MP Wera Hobhouse found out more about the valuable work provided for the local community by the Bath Area Play Project during a recent visit.
Bath MP Wera Hobhouse during her visit to the holiday project at Three Ways School
The MP visited Three Ways School on 25th July, where disabled children aged 5 to 19 years old were taking part in the charity’s Holiday Playscheme.
The programme provides a holiday club open to children across the Bath area.
The Bath Area Play Project (B.A.P.P) is a local voluntary organisation and registered charity that was established in 1979 to offer and promote quality play opportunities for school-age children during school holidays.
Since its inception, B.A.P.P has hosted thousands of children, who have enjoyed one of their open-access holiday playschemes, playdays, and family play sessions.
During her visit, Mrs Hobhouse learned about the valuable work B.A.P.P does. The Project’s playworkers support families with SEND children aged 5 to 19 years, using whole-family support and play as a process of engagement and support to develop stronger family bonds.
The MP commented: “I am absolutely delighted to have had the opportunity to visit the Bath Area Play Project at Three Ways School.
“Witnessing first-hand the incredible work that is being done to support families and children during the summer holidays was truly an honour.
“It is heart-warming to see how the Project’s playworkers are using a child-centred and Think Family approach, ensuring that the voice of the child is not only heard but responded to, followed and supported.
“B.A.P.P is crucial to help improve the quality of life for those who, due to disabilities and additional needs, often miss out on so many fun and enriching experiences that others may take for granted.
“I am grateful to everyone involved in this wonderful initiative for their dedication and hard work.”
Project Director, Caroline Haworth MBE, commented: “We are grateful to be given the opportunity to raise some of the issues facing families with children with SEND.
“We are fortunate that B&NES Council commissions this much valued service as it provides a lifeline for so many families.
“Play is a right for all children and we are proud that our Specialist Playworkers ensure SEND children have these opportunities.”
