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British manufacturing in action: Wicksteed welcomes the Chancellor

Posted by The Wicksteed Team, 17 Dec 25

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We recently had the honour of welcoming Rachel Reeves, Chancellor of the Exchequer, to our factory for a tour of where play comes to life. Joined by Rosie Wrighting MP, Tom Hayes MP and Eugene Minogue of Play England, the visit offered a chance to share the story behind the equipment that supports children’s play in communities across the UK.

As the group moved through the factory, they met the people behind the process — designers, engineers and skilled fabricators whose passion is creating inclusive, engaging play spaces that stand the test of time. From hand-finished components to carefully engineered structures, every stage reflects Wicksteed’s belief that play should be safe, inspiring and accessible for all children.

The visit followed the announcement of £18 million in government funding dedicated to play — a hugely positive step for the sector. When combined with the Pride in Place funding, this investment has the power to transform deprived playgrounds into vibrant community spaces, supporting children’s physical, social and emotional development.

With almost 150 years of experience, Wicksteed remains committed to championing the value of play, working alongside organisations such as Play England to ensure that every child has the opportunity to play, explore and thrive.
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We recently had the honour of welcoming Rachel Reeves, Chancellor of the Exchequer, to our factory for a tour of where play comes to life. Joined by Rosie Wrighting MP, Tom Hayes MP and Eugene Minogue of Play England, the visit offered a chance to share the story behind the equipment that supports children’s play in communities across the UK.

As the group moved through the factory, they met the people behind the process — designers, engineers and skilled fabricators whose passion is creating inclusive, engaging play spaces that stand the test of time. From hand-finished components to carefully engineered structures, every stage reflects Wicksteed’s belief that play should be safe, inspiring and accessible for all children.

The visit followed the announcement of £18 million in government funding dedicated to play — a hugely positive step for the sector. When combined with the Pride in Place funding, this investment has the power to transform deprived playgrounds into vibrant community spaces, supporting children’s physical, social and emotional development.

With almost 150 years of experience, Wicksteed remains committed to championing the value of play, working alongside organisations such as Play England to ensure that every child has the opportunity to play, explore and thrive.
  Read More