Mental health and wellbeing in play and playwork – the NEST framework

Author: Millie Boswell
Date: September 2026

A training resource which considers the crucial role of children’s play in promoting positive mental health and wellbeing. It offers an introduction to the Welsh Government NEST framework for mental health and wellbeing and relates use of the framework to playwork practice.

The resource has been created for play and playwork trainers to support with delivering training, qualifications and other professional development opportunities about mental health and wellbeing, aimed at playwork practitioners. It is intended to support playwork trainers with making the links between playwork and the NEST framework and supporting playworkers to reflect on how their practice contributes to wellbeing.

The resource includes sessions plans, worksheets for learners and links to supporting materials.

Supporting materials 

Download PowerPoint presentation