Explore Play Wales
The housebuilder, Barratt Redrow has announced it will prioritise creating inclusive and accessible play spaces across its new developments to ensure more children can play outside.
The pledge follows research commissioned by the housebuilder that revealed more than a quarter of parents (27%) surveyed in Wales have seen children with physical or neurological disabilities excluded from playgrounds.
The survey of over 2,000 parents across the UK showed almost a third (30%) of respondents in Wales say accessible play areas in their community do not meet the needs of their children. Parents also said the average distance to a playground that meets their child’s needs is 3.74 miles.
The parents commented on how beneficial outdoor play was to their child, with 60% saying play had a positive impact on children’s physical health. More than 40% reported a lack of outdoor play was affecting children’s motivation, fitness and ability to make friends.
Barratt Redrow has said it will work with children and teenagers to design play spaces that meet the needs of the local community where possible. It estimates the scheme could deliver up to 100 new accessible and inclusive play spaces each year across the UK for children and parents to enjoy.
Play Wales says:
‘Children of all ages consistently say that playing and meeting up with their friends is important to them. The outdoors continues to be their favourite place to play.
‘Play Wales calls for better use of public places – so that all children and teenagers can explore and play in their neighbourhoods. Developers and housebuilders have a vital role to play in creating inclusive and accessible places where all children can play and meet up with their friends.’