Away from the home, playgrounds are the most popular place for outdoor play. The API campaigns for the provision of high-quality play facilities so that every child in the UK has access to a safe, local, free-to-access play space. Outdoor play has a vital role in tackling the nation’s physical inactivity epidemic, childhood obesity and record levels of children’s mental health problems.
Our latest campaign is a call for action and a call for change. We are urging the next UK government to make a significant investment in public play provision and asking them to commit to three clear asks.
Visit the PathwayToPlay Campaign Page
Equal Play is based on new research which shows that children’s access to public play areas is unequal and unfair. Some areas of the UK have almost five times the number of children per playground as others. Children’s opportunities to play outdoors are a postcode lottery.
Visit the Equal Play Campaign Page
Our survey of over 1100 parents showed that they are worried about the shift from outdoor play to indoor screen time and the vast majority say that playgrounds are vital in getting children outdoors and active again.
Visit the PlayMustStay Campaign Page
Our research report showed, for the first time, a strong link between recreational screen time and children’s inactivity. Children are choosing to spend their free hours on screens instead of playing outside.
Visit the Movement for Movement Campaign Page
Our research uncovered an alarming decline in play provision with hundreds of playgrounds set to close. Local authorities cited lack of budget to maintain, repair or replace equipment as reasons for the closures.