Experts urge national strategy as children in England lose out on play

Experts urge national strategy as children in England lose out on play
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Children in England are growing up “sedentary, scrolling and alone” due to a major decline in play, according to a year-long investigation by the Raising the Nation Play Commission, The Guardian reported. The commission, led by entrepreneur Paul Lindley and former children’s commissioner Anne Longfield, is calling for urgent government action, including a national play strategy backed by £125 million in annual funding.

The report recommends banning “no ball games” signs, raising the digital age of consent to 16, reinstating play in education, and introducing a legal requirement for local authorities to ensure sufficient play opportunities. Experts say a lack of safe, accessible outdoor spaces is driving children indoors and onto screens.

Nineteen commissioners, including doctors and play advocates, heard evidence from families, professionals, and children. Young people said limited school breaks, heavy homework, and unaffordable or vanishing local facilities restrict their ability to play. One Year 7 pupil said, “We’ve got stress, we’re doing homework… barely any time to do anything.”

Lady Longfield warned of a link between declining play and worsening child wellbeing, including rising obesity and unhappiness. Commissioners highlighted positive examples from countries like Finland, where play is built into school life with frequent breaks and outdoor activity.

A government spokesperson acknowledged the importance of play and cited initiatives like the National Education Nature Park and £100m investment in grassroots sports. However, experts say more systemic change is needed to restore play as a central part of childhood.