Bristol Playbus

 

 

Bristol Playbus started as puppet touring group and slowly evolved into a play and family project. Our services have adapted over the years to be able to offer a range of opportunities to children and their families who live in isolated or disadvantaged communities. We are currently providing a wide range of play and childcare services in partnership with other agencies to children, young people and their families in Bristol, South Gloucestershire and North Somerset.

 

The Bristol Playbus Project has a long history of actively promoting the importance of play and social inclusion. In essence we work proactively to identify areas of inadequate play provision and respond reactively whenever a need for our service has been identified.

 

We have two vehicles equipped to work with children aged 0-15 years. The double decker is designed to work with pre school children and their families. The vehicle is registered with Ofsted and team are qualified and experienced in working with young children.

 

The truck is kitted out for working with 5-13 year olds. We have a music system on board which is used by children to learn how to make and mix their own music. The team also use the truck for cooking and other arts activities. We have a variety of large play equipment such as a geodome.

 

We liase with other agencies and work in partnerships to provide a professional integrated service. We are core funded by Irish Youth Association, Bristol City Council, South Gloucestershire Council and North Somerset Council, however income from Trusts and other agencies is vital to our project.

 

We endeavour to offer equality of opportunity and access in all the work that we do.. We regard each child, young person and adult as a unique individual and value the community and their personal background; including culture, religion, language, personal achievement and home experiences. All our services are free at the point of delivery.

 

Our staff team consists of a Project manager, Office Co-ordinator, two Community Development / Core Workers (specialising in either under fives, junior/youth, or community arts, although all are flexible in the areas in which they work) and a small dedicated team of experienced sessional workers and volunteers. The project is supported, managed and guided by a voluntary Management Committee.