Better play streets support can tackle loneliness

Research carried out by Newcastle University has found that resident-organised playing out sessions are a proven way for children of different ages and from different schools to meet and play with each other.

People living on streets where children regularly play out said they know their neighbours better as a result and their street feels friendlier and safer, leading to greater community cohesion and a reduction in loneliness.

Carried out in collaboration with Playing Out, the research also highlighted that much of the work in organising neighbourhood playing out sessions falls to small groups of neighbours. The study authors suggest that local authorities should recognise and value the contribution of this resident-led, grassroots movement in helping to tackle loneliness and disconnection in communities and are calling for more support for residents to establish and maintain playing out on their streets.

The report is particularly timely, as the current coronavirus pandemic brings home the importance of micro-local support networks and looking out for elderly, isolated or vulnerable neighbours. Playing Out is joining Eden Communities in calling for a Community Action Response to the crisis, with a focus on caring for and connecting with those around us, virtually, by phone or having conversations and running errands with safe physical space. We will need to find new ways to help each other.

Alison Stenning, chair in Social and Economic Geography, said: “Playing out is not just about play and not just for children. It promotes an increase in neighbourliness, a sense of belonging, and safer, friendlier streets. This research has shown that resident-led temporary play streets can play a role in helping to alleviate loneliness. This, along with many other social and community benefits, suggests that there’s a strong case for more support from government and local authorities to ensure that playing out is something that everyone in any community can take part in.”