Shared ground: Examining the alignment of playwork and youth work practice in Wales

A research report exploring the alignment of playwork and youth work practices across Wales. It highlights examples of aligned practice within local authorities and third sector organisations, emphasising the benefits and challenges of this approach. Commissioned by Play Wales, the research was undertaken by Alex Drury and Professor Mandy Robbins from Wrexham University.

The findings in Shared ground: Examining the alignment of playwork and youth work practice in Wales reveal that aligned practices in these sectors can lead to improved service delivery, better understanding of children’s needs, and stronger relationships between practitioners and the communities they serve. However, challenges such as differing principles, training requirements and external factors like funding and policy alignment need to be addressed to maximise the benefits of this approach.

The research aims to inform further discussions on the strategic alignment of the playwork and youth work sectors to enhance service delivery for children. It will also be of interest to playwork and youth work practitioners.

The report concludes with the researchers’ recommendations for strategic leaders, training providers and policymakers to support the development of aligned practices and enhance the overall effectiveness of playwork and youth work in Wales.