INTERPLAY (INTEGRATED PLAY AND LEISURE)

INTERPLAY (Integrated Play and Leisure) is a UK-based registered charity (number 1062152) dedicated to providing and supporting integrated play, leisure, and social opportunities for children and young people aged 2 to 25 with special needs and disabilities. The organisation primarily serves individuals who face barriers to accessing mainstream play and leisure activities due to their additional needs, aiming to create an inclusive environment where they can participate fully and socially engage.

Mission and Activities

INTERPLAY focuses on enabling access to play and leisure for children and young people with a wide range of disabilities and additional needs, including profound and multiple disabilities, learning disabilities, physical impairments, sensory impairments, autism, ADHD, and challenging behaviour. The charity’s primary criterion for service users is that, without additional support, these young people would not be able to access play and leisure activities on an equal basis with their peers.

The organisation runs a variety of programmes tailored to meet these needs, including weekly term-time play sessions, youth clubs, summer schemes, and residential camps. These activities provide safe, accessible, and supportive environments that encourage social interaction, skill development, and enjoyment.

Accessibility and Inclusion

INTERPLAY is committed to catering to diverse accessibility requirements. Facilities and activities provided by the charity are designed to be autism-friendly, learning disability-friendly, wheelchair accessible, and supportive of other mobility devices like walkers. The organisation ensures that quiet spaces and other necessary accommodations are available to address sensory or behavioural needs.

Geographic Focus

INTERPLAY operates primarily in the Swansea and Neath Port Talbot areas, engaging with local authorities and community partners to extend its reach and impact in South Wales.

Governance and Funding

As a registered charity, INTERPLAY operates under a governing document that outlines its charitable objectives centered on integrated play and leisure opportunities for young people with special needs. Its funding supports the delivery of its programmes and the necessary support services that enable participation.

Recognition and Partnerships

INTERPLAY is acknowledged for its work in disability services, arts and culture, sports and recreation, and other charitable purposes related to social inclusion and community engagement. The charity often collaborates with local organisations and receives support from charitable donations and grants.

INTERPLAY represents a vital resource for young people with disabilities in the Swansea region, promoting inclusion, social interaction, and access to leisure activities that are essential for wellbeing and development.

[1] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/3035847/charity-overview [2] https://www.wellchild.org.uk/in-your-area/interplay-integrated-play-leisure/ [3] https://www.totalgiving.co.uk/charity/interplay-integrated-play-and-leisure [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/3035847/governing-document [5] https://www.instagram.com/interplay_ipl/