Homebuilder Redrow has revealed in a new survey of 2,000 parents across the UK there is increasing concern about safety of child play with 80% of parents in London saying roads are too dangerous now to send their children outside to play.
Other findings also revealed that 30% of parents said there are not enough safe spaces near their home to play while 34% also revealed that their child spends too much time on social media.
The developers of The West Works in Southall has launched a ‘Please Play Here’ campaign which aims to encourage children to play safely outside and is also providing play kits at its developments to encourage play in the local community and inspire many to bring back nostalgic classic games like British Bullfrog and Hopscotch.
It has also created a playmaking guide.
Redrow is being advised by children’s psychologist and professor at Exeter University, Professor Helen Dodd to help develop play friendly communities for residents.
Professor Dodd said: “The research shows that fewer children are playing outdoors than in their parent’s generation, with a particularly notable decline in street play. Parents recognise that outdoor play is important for children’s physical health, mental health and social skills but we still see declines in this type of play. Two notable barriers to children’s outdoor play that parents recognise are road safety and lack of open spaces; parents want to see more safe spaces for play in their local neighbourhood.
“She added: “Three quarters of parents reported that they made friends with neighbours after their children had played outdoors together – outlining how key play is, not only for children, but for social connections and bonds within the wider community.”
Redrow said its developments have been built with play in mind and highlights that it offers wider streets and cul de sacs to encourage young people living there to come outdoors and play safely.
Kevin Parker, group master planning director at Redrow added: “Placemaking and the concept of play has always been a key priority for us at Redrow. We have designated open spaces for play and recreation across our developments, as well as play-on-the-way spaces and multi-functional green corridors including natural play to encourage resident interaction and promote a better way to live.”
Mr Parker added: “We want to go further than minimum requirements, and fully respond to the needs of our customers, which is why we’re working with experts like Dr Helen Dodd and launching this campaign ahead of the summer school holidays.”
