The Play Return: A review of the wider impact of play initiatives

Date: 1st July 2014
Category: Recreation, play and cultural activities

To support Playday 2014, the Children's Play Policy Forum released a report presenting evidence to build the case for improving the play opportunities of children and young people.

Its focus is on children of school age, and on free play that takes place out of doors. It looks at quantitative evidence of the wider outcomes and impact of play interventions and initiatives.

The report looks at four types of intervention that each involve setting aside time and space for children to play: improving opportunities for free play in school break times, unstaffed public play facilities, supervised out-of-school play provision and street play initiatives.

The report reinforces the Playday 2014 campaign messages. Marguerite Hunter Blair, Chief Executive of Play Scotland said "We are keen to ensure children and young people enjoy their right to play but we also know how important play is for older generations too. We would love Playday to be a celebration for everyone of what play means to them."

Article 31 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) reflects the importance of play and requires State Parties to recognise the right of the child to rest and leisure, to engage in play and recreational activities appropriate to the age of the child and participate freely in cultural life and the arts. States must encourage the provision of appropriate and equal opportunities for artistic, recreational and leisure activity.

• Download 'The Play Return' report here.