Today, Playing Out reaches Brighton for the first time.
Playing Out is a small, grassroots community movement started in Bristol, aimed at activating street play in your neighbourhoood.
The theory is that modern-day kids don’t do what a lot of us used to when we were younger – that is play outside after school. The reasons for this are varied and include busier roads, more protective parents, more ‘enticing’ entertainment indoors.
Two mums in Bristol organised the first Playing Out session back in 2009 and it’s slowly branching out across the country.
Now for Brighton
Today (Friday 14th December), the first Playing Out session hits Brighton – in Compton Road and Inwood Crescent.
It’s taken about 2 months from the first ‘street’ meeting to today’s event.
– We’ve collected signatures (at least 2/3 of your chosen road/s has to agree)
– Submitted the road closure request to Brighton & Hove Council (who initially disagreed, but then saw sense)
– Made signs (see above right)
– Put flyers on cars
– Organised a stewarding rota
Now we’re ready to don high-vis jackets and brave the winter weather to supervise and marshal.
Typically, the Great British weather is looking like it will make the first one a little soggy, but we’re confident that this will become a regular event throughout the year.
Interested?
– If you want to find out more, visit the Playing Out website