Young people in the Highlands are being credited for helping shape the future of play across Scotland.
Highland Council’s Playpark Strategy has been officially referenced in the Scottish Government’s new Play Vision Statement and Action Plan for 2025 to 2030.
The document sets out a five-year vision for play in Scotland and identifies actions needed to make that vision a reality.
It includes national and international examples of best practice, and the Highlands are the only council named alongside major organisations like Harvard University and the University of Cambridge.
The recognition comes thanks to a strategy developed with children themselves at its heart.
Consultations, surveys and honest conversations with young people helped shape the council’s Playpark Strategy for 2023 to 2033.
The result is a child-led plan that places the needs and ideas of local youngsters front and centre.
Councillor Graham MacKenzie, Chair of the Communities and Place Committee, said the council is proud of the recognition.
He said the strategy was guided by what young people told them they wanted from their local play spaces.
Children asked for parks that are easy to reach, well-maintained and offer equipment suitable for all ages and abilities.
They also highlighted the need for open space to run and play freely, and equipment that encourages group activity and collaboration.
Councillor MacKenzie said their voices were central to shaping the future of play across the Highlands.
He added that the inclusion of Highland Council’s work in a national publication shows just how important listening to young people can be.
The strategy was also informed by a literature review that emphasised the health and social benefits of play.
Evidence showed that access to outdoor play helps children develop physical fitness, emotional resilience and social confidence.
It also highlighted the role of parks in supporting long-term wellbeing and stronger communities.
The Council hopes its strategy will help inspire other areas to take a similar child-first approach.
The work is already helping communities upgrade and design their own playparks through local initiatives supported by the council.
Anyone interested in learning more or getting involved is encouraged to contact Highland Council’s Playpark Coordinator directly.
The Highland Times celebrates the influence of young Highlanders in shaping Scotland’s national approach to play.
