A landmark report from the Raising the Nation Play Commission was launched on the #InternationalDayOfPlay.
The Association of Play Industries is a proud sponsor of the Commission, and API Chair, Dr Amanda Gummer, has served as one of the Commissioners throughout this year-long, independent inquiry.
Launched at the House of Lords, the report highlights how childhood has changed dramatically over the past 30 years. With fewer public playgrounds, growing safety fears and rising screen time, children’s opportunities to play outdoors have declined by 50% in a generation.
Attending the launch, Dr Amanda Gummer 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 Play Commission’s wide-ranging recommendations include:
- A National Play Strategy for England, led by a dedicated Minister for Play
- A statutory Play Sufficiency Duty for local authorities
- Investment in public playgrounds and safe spaces to play
- The removal of ‘No Ball Games’ signs
- Raising the digital age of consent to 16
- A ban on mobile phones during the school day
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.
We believe this report is a powerful call to action and a vital step in our mission to ensure that every child has access to free, local, high-quality play areas.
Read the full report here.
