A PLAYWORKER at Meriden Adventure Playground has been honoured for her services to the local community.
Ellen Delaney has received a British Empire Medal for her work in the community and particularly to children, young people and their families.
In addition to the voluntary hours put in at the adventure playground, Ellen volunteers with Meriden Adventure Playground spin off, MAD House youth club, and with Community Action Fordbridge Events.
Ellen Delaney said: “I am really pleased that her Majesty has heard of our project and chosen to recognise us with this honour.
“It’s not just about me, this is for all of us who are standing up for children and young people and their needs and rights – and for families too.”
In addition to regular open access play for children up to 16 years old and their families, Meriden Adventure Playground supports disabled children in partnership with SoLO, youth services in partnership with Solihull Council’s Engage, a food and cooking project in partnership with Fare Share and numerous small projects and activities which is used by up to 450 children a day during school holidays.
Play services are seen as necessary when design, traffic and social factors have restricted children’s ability to use their neighbourhood as a safe place to be themselves, run, jump, dig, climb and swing, learn new skills like using tools, preparing and cooking food over the open fire, as many adults did in their own childhoods.
Simon Rix, senior playworker at Meriden Adventure Playground said “I am really proud of Ellen and the rest of the team.
“Everyone has worked incredibly hard to make this service what it is and to build the position and reputation that it has in this community.
“Ellen’s honour reflects on all the parents, young people and community members who have contributed to that.”
