The Raising the Nation Play Commission has published its report on how play has changed over the past 30 years.
The report, which is described as a “landmark report” by The Association of Play Industries, highlighted that with fewer playgrounds, growing safety fears and rising screen time, children’s opportunities to play outdoors have declined by 50 per cent in a generation.
Dr Amanda Gummer, the chair of the Association of Play Industries, who also served as one of the commissioners, said: “It was encouraging to see the level of support for the Commission and the Report. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed being a commissioner over the last 12 months. The momentum is growing, and it is an exciting time for play.”
The commission’s recommendations included investment in public playgrounds and safe spaces to play, a National Play Strategy for England, led by a dedicated Minister for Play and a statutory Play Sufficiency Duty for local authorities.
The report draws on evidence and contributions from over 150 organisations and individuals and is backed by over 1,200 signatories, including GPs, educators, local government leaders, charities and built environment experts.
