Last night’s Call-In meeting ended as expected, with Labour councillors voting 2–1 against referring the Transforming Youth Play decision back to Cabinet.
I attended the meeting and spoke as the petitioner for Glyndon Adventure Play Centre, as a parent and carer of an autistic child, and as a Parent Governor. In my speech, I raised concerns about safeguarding, the rising needs of autistic and disabled children, increasing CAMHS referrals, and the absence of a clear crime and safeguarding transition plan if supervised provision is removed.
The Equality Impact Assessment shows that 16% of current users have a recorded disability — significantly higher than the borough average. This demonstrates that the current staffed model is reaching vulnerable children effectively. Removing supervision carries real risk.
It was encouraging to see strong support from campaigners and powerful contributions from speakers who stood up for children and young people across our borough.
Thank you to Independent Socialist Cllr Majella Anning, Green Cllr Lakshan Saldin, and Conservative Cllrs Matt Hartley and Roger Tester for triggering the Call-In and continuing to challenge the decision. Thank you also to Fiona Sutherland from London Play for her ongoing support and expertise.
Although the decision was not referred back, this campaign is far from over.
We will continue to hold the Council accountable and stand up for the dedicated staff who have supported our children for years.
As election season approaches, please speak to canvassers and candidates. Ask them why the Labour-controlled Council continues to push through decisions despite strong community concern — not only on Adventure Play Centres, but also on issues such as the sale of public car parks & green spaces and the expansion of CPZ areas and hours.
Ask them directly:
Will you commit to keeping all FIVE of our staffed Adventure Play Centres open?
🌿 Our children matter.
🌿 Prevention matters.
🌿 Community voices matter.
Many residents feel disappointed and frustrated by decisions that are affecting vital local services.
I am now seriously considering standing as an Independent Socialist candidate in Plumstead Glyndon in the May 2026 local elections.
The campaign continues. ✊
— Save Glyndon Adventure Play Centre Campaign