Raising the Nation Play Commission highlights a significant decline in outdoor play for children in England
A recent report by the Raising the Nation Play Commission highlights a significant decline in outdoor play for children in England, with participation dropping by 50%. Following a year-long inquiry into child wellbeing, the Commission identifies factors such as playground closures, busy roads, shortened school break times and increased screen time as key contributors to this decline.
The report urges the government to create more opportunities for children to play outside and improve access to outdoor activities. They recommend several key actions, including:
- Banning “no ball games” signs nationwide.
- Updating planning policies to ensure children’s input in the development of new parks and play areas.
- Protecting playtime at schools, preventing teachers from removing break times as punishment.
- Opening school playgrounds to the community after hours.
- Raising the digital age of consent to 16 and enforcing phone bans in schools.
The commission reports that over 7,000 “no ball games” signs in London alone restrict half a million children from playing freely outdoors. Unlike in Scotland and Wales, where local authorities are legally required to provide play opportunities for children, England currently lacks such a legal framework, leaving outdoor play rights unprotected.
Commission Chair Paul Lindley, states that England has:
“…made it incredibly hard for children to play….we need to give our children back the time, space, opportunity, freedom and the right to play again.”
In response, the Government has acknowledged the importance of outdoor play for children’s development and wellbeing. They are investing in grassroots sports facilities and projects to transform grey school spaces into greener, more accessible areas for play.
While efforts are underway, the commission’s report underscores the need for stronger actions to ensure children in England have the right and the space to play freely and safely outdoors.
If you are a school, community organisation or council looking to enhance your outdoor spaces to improve play and sports opportunities, then contact our expert team today.