Last week, we were back in the Houses of Parliament for the final live session of the select committee inquiry into children, young people and the built environment.
Over 100 organisations and individuals (including us!) submitted written evidence to the inquiry, collectively making an indisputable case that children are being badly let down by Government policy, with massive impact on their mental and physical health. Children’s fundamental needs – to play outside, socialise and get around under their own steam – are not being considered, let alone met.
The oral evidence sessions strengthened this further, demonstrating that:
- Children’s health and wellbeing is in a critical state, especially for those facing inequalities
- Children are not considered in planning/housing/transport policy
- The built environment does not meet children’s needs to play outside, socialise, travel independently, access spaces and places
- This is a crucial factor underlying the children’s health crisis
Recommendations for Govt have included:
- Prioritise children’s wellbeing and their need for outdoor space/play/physical activity
- Work cross-departmentally to ensure this need is met
- Update national planning policy/guidance, mandating specific consideration of children in planning and development
- Prioritise safe streets where children can walk, cycle and play
- Take immediate steps to restore children’s access to outdoor play, such as a national ban on ‘No Ball Games’ signs, and support for play streets
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