YOUNG carers from across Suffolk will be getting more freedom for play following the launch of a new play strategy. In a ground breaking partnership, a number of organisations including Suffolk County Council, health bodies and youth organisations have joined together to form a group known as Partners in Play Suffolk (PIPS).

YOUNG people from across Suffolk will be getting more freedom for play following the launch of a new play strategy.

In a ground breaking partnership, a number of organisations including Suffolk County Council, health bodies and youth organisations have joined together to form a group known as Partners in Play Suffolk (PIPS).

The group aims to increase and improve play provision in all areas for all children and young people in the county and the shape of things to come was on show in Great Blakenham at a launch event this week.

Fifty Young Carers, aged between nine and 16 were invited to get together and join in with fun activities.

Tim Mutum, children's network lead from Babergh District Council and member of PIPS, said: "This is a good example of the county and districts working together to provide opportunities for children to play, whilst also raising the overall profile of play within the county."

Councillor Patricia O'Brien, Suffolk County Council's portfolio holder for children, schools and young people's services said: “Children's' right to play is often taken for granted.

“Too many children are kept from the happy and carefree experiences of childhood - playing in the park, cycling up and down the street, building imaginary castles in the countryside. We owe it to every child in Suffolk to ensure they have the freedom to play."

For more information about children, schools and young people's in Suffolk visit www.suffolk.gov.uk.

Should more be done to encourage children to play? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk.