Caerphilly Play is delighted to announce that applications are now open for the National Play Day Small Grants Scheme 2024. Eligible settings can apply for a grant of up to £250 to host events celebrating National Play Day during the week commencing Monday, 5th August, with National Play Day itself on Wednesday, 7th August.
This grant opportunity is available to childminders, private and voluntary sector providers, and non-maintained settings offering day care, wrap-around care, holiday play schemes, and out-of-school childcare clubs based within Caerphilly County Borough. If a provider operates multiple registered settings within the borough, individual applications must be made for each setting. Funds cannot be transferred between projects.
Applicants must clearly explain the benefit to the setting and children in receiving the grant. Events must be held during the week commencing Monday, 5th August. If the applicant is providing a new service and not currently registered on Dewis, they must commit to registering. Compliance with the Child Minding and Day Care Exceptions (Wales) Order 2010 (as amended) must be demonstrated. All staff must have valid and clear Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks, and a safeguarding policy with appropriately trained key staff must be confirmed. Risk-benefit assessments for play provision are required, and events must be offered for free or at a nominal fee (up to £1). The grant must be acknowledged in any promotional materials issued to parents, and the standard Terms and Conditions of the grant must be read, agreed, and signed.
The grant will prioritise settings providing quality play opportunities for children aged 4-12, those offering opportunities for children to socialise, have fun, be active, or learn something new, events offering healthy snacks and drinks, not-for-profit settings, and those with trained playworker staff. The grant can be used for activities and resources that inspire children to recreate the National Play Day 2024 theme, “Play – the culture of childhood Supporting play, fun and friendships,” and for healthy food and drinks for the event.
However, the grant cannot be used for staff costs such as wages, training, travel, and subsistence, junk food, sweets, and unhealthy treats, utility bills, or insurance costs. Applications will be assessed and scored by a panel, with successful applicants notified by Thursday, 18th July. The grant must be used solely for approved items outlined in the application, and misuse of funds will result in repayment.
All applications and supporting evidence must be submitted by Friday, 12th July at 12pm. Late or incomplete applications may be declined. For any questions or further information, please contact Play Sufficiency Officer Laura Williams at [email protected].
National Play Day is an annual celebration encouraging children to enjoy play, promoting its importance for their development, health, and well-being. The 2024 theme, “Play – the culture of childhood Supporting play, fun and friendships,” highlights the role of play in fostering relationships and joy in children’s lives.
