Campaigning methods

Holding a Playday event is an excellent campaigning tool in itself – what better way to show the value of play than showing first-hand the benefits play has for children, families and communities?

The main thing to think about is what you want to get out of your activity? Do you want to raise awareness of the issues, sign up supporters or hold local decision makers to account? There are lots of methods to consider, but here are a few to get you started:

Petitions

Show how much backing you have for your campaign and gather contact details for supporters to keep them informed about the campaign’s progress at the same time.  Visit your local authority’s website for advice and guidance on petitioning in your area.

Protests, demonstrations and marches

Get attention for your campaign and support for the issues. For further information on your right to protest and advice on planning a protest, visit www.direct.gov.uk.

Public meetings

To get your message out, galvanise support for your campaign and hold decision makers to account. Invite those who are directly affected by the issues, the wider community and your local elected representatives.

Play tours

To show the difference local play provision is making to the lives of children and young people. Organise visits for your local decision-makers and get testimonies from children, young people, families and the community that benefit from the provision.

Writing letters

For an opportunity to clearly set out the issues to local decision-makers and politicians, tell them how they are affecting you and ask them for support. Contact details for your local elected representatives can be found at www.writetothem.com.

Benefit events

To raise money to support local play services and settings, whilst gaining attention that they are in need too. You could hold a music, comedy, or talent show, for example.

And finally

Your right to a playful protest!

Campaigning on an issue such as play puts you in a unique situation where you are campaigning for something fun and engaging. Enjoying what you are doing and giving your campaign a playful edge will in itself demonstrate the benefits of play and encourage people to get on board.