CARMARTHENSHIRE has been ranked among the safest places in the UK for children to play outside, according to new research analysing child safety across Britain.

The county placed sixth overall, with a child safety score of 7.74 out of ten, as Welsh areas dominated the top ten rankings.

The study, carried out by outdoor play equipment specialists Outdoortoys, examined a range of factors including road safety, access to parks, levels of antisocial behaviour, and population density of children.

Nine of the top ten safest areas for outdoor play were found to be in Wales.

The Vale of Glamorgan ranked first overall with a score of 8.33, followed by Monmouthshire and Ceredigion in second and third place respectively.

Pembrokeshire also featured prominently, ranking fifth with a score of 7.89.

The research found that Carmarthenshire benefits from relatively low pedestrian casualty rates, good access to parks and playgrounds, and a high proportion of urban roads with 20mph speed limits.

Across Wales, lower population density and widespread 20mph zones were identified as key factors contributing to safer outdoor environments for children.

The report also highlighted stark contrasts with more densely populated urban areas, where higher traffic levels, increased antisocial behaviour, and fewer accessible play spaces contributed to lower safety scores.

Stoke-on-Trent was identified as the least safe area in the UK for outdoor play, with significantly fewer 20mph roads and higher risk factors overall.

The study also found that Gwynedd has the highest number of parks and playgrounds per child anywhere in the UK.

Alex Price, a product expert at Outdoortoys, said: “Outdoor play is essential for children’s physical health, social development and confidence. When parents feel it is unsafe for children to play outside, it limits their independence and development.

“Creating safe environments, whether in public spaces or at home, is vital to ensuring children have the freedom to play, explore and grow.”

The findings come amid ongoing concerns about road safety and rising traffic levels, which campaigners say are making it increasingly difficult for children to play outdoors freely.

GET ready to celebrate St Patrick’s Day in style this Friday at the Giraldus Centre in Manorbier.

The community venue is hosting a lively evening of music, dancing and Irish-themed fun, with entertainment from popular local group The Slipway Ukes.

Doors open at 7:00pm on Friday (Mar 20), with free entry for all. A fully licensed bar will be open throughout the evening, serving drinks and snacks with an Irish twist.

Organisers are encouraging everyone to “unleash their inner leprechaun” and enjoy a night on the dance floor.

There is no need to book—just turn up and join in.

Donations on the night will be gratefully received in support of the Paul Sartori Foundation.

The event takes place at the Giraldus Centre, Manorbier, SA70 7TN.

Welsh Government boosts support for off-grid households facing financial pressure

EXTRA support is being made available to households in Wales struggling with the rising cost of heating oil, the Welsh Government has announced today (Wednesday, March 18).

The funding increase comes as many families—particularly those living off the gas grid—continue to face significant cost-of-living pressures.

Support is already available through the Discretionary Assistance Fund (DAF), which helps people in financial crisis contribute towards essential costs, including off-grid fuel such as heating oil. The scheme is open to anyone aged over sixteen living in Wales who is experiencing an unexpected financial emergency.

The Welsh Government has now confirmed that the maximum payment for heating oil will be temporarily increased from £500 to £750 while prices remain high.

In addition, the number of times households can receive support has been increased. Payments can now be made twice within a rolling twelve-month period, provided there is a minimum gap of three months between awards. Previously, support was limited to a single payment.

The change recognises that some households who received help earlier in the winter may still be struggling as high prices persist.

The Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Jane Hutt said: “With the ongoing conflict in the Middle East causing uncertainty across global markets, we recognise that many people are struggling with the cost of living, particularly households who rely on oil for their domestic heating and hot water.

“We welcome the UK Government’s announcement of £3.8 million for Wales in 2026-27 and are considering how best to deploy it.

“Today’s announcement will provide immediate extra help for those in greatest need to deal with the rise in oil prices.”

The Welsh Government said the Discretionary Assistance Fund remains one of several schemes aimed at supporting people with rising living costs.

Applications for off-grid fuel support must be made through DAF partners, including local authorities.

Anyone struggling financially is encouraged to contact AdviceLink Cymru’s ‘Claim What’s Yours’ helpline on 0800 702 2020, or visit their website for free, independent advice on available support.