Airplay Connect: Bringing RAF children and young people together this autumn

Since launching earlier this year, Airplay Connect has been a vital digital resource for all RAF young people and children to enjoy.

The platform, developed by the Fund's Airplay partners Action for Children, was introduced to help young people who have been isolated at home under local and national lockdown restrictions.

Airplay Connect allows Station Youth workers to reach children who might live away from RAF stations or even overseas and engage them in activities. It also enables them to be there for children who are facing the challenges of being part of a military family, such as deployed parents or having to move schools. At MoD Boscombe Down, virtual sessions have provided fun, encouragement and security during the COVID-19 pandemic.

One Airplay member from MoD Boscombe Down said: "The virtual sessions are good because you can talk about what's wrong in life. The sessions are really fun and I love them – they make you feel included when you are at home. A few weeks ago we decided to do a project. Then it clicked we should do a project on climate change and every week the idea kept getting better and better until we came up with 'Airplay Lights OFF'. The virtual sessions have really helped to get through this pandemic and we have so much fun together."

Airplay Connect includes ideas on activities that young people can do, weekly themes and challenges, a noticeboard for sharing photos and monthly Focus Groups. For information on how to sign up, speak to your Station Youth Worker or email airplayandbenclub@actionforchildren.org.uk.