A children’s charity has defended its record after claiming it was identified by a Treasury aide as an example of ‘inefficient government spending’.

Responding to the government’s public sector cutbacks announcements, Play England pointed to achievements including thousands of new or improved play areas and its 30 staffed adventure playgrounds as evidence of ‘excellent value for money and real benefit to the economy’.

It also warned that ‘reducing inefficiencies’ could turn into less voluntary sector work in the neediest communities.

Adrian Voce, Play England director, said: ‘Political parties from across the spectrum have recognised the need for action to make public space safer and more child-friendly, to renew our public play areas and to give children in the most deprived areas access to high-quality, staffed playgrounds.

‘Research tells us that in terms of impact on children’s health, learning and wider benefits to the whole community – such as the reduction in crime – the play strategy has demonstrated excellent value for money and real benefit to the economy.’

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