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Written question asked by Tom Hayes (Labour) on Monday, 7 September 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 14 September 2026 (named day). It was answered by Florence Eshalomi (Labour) on Monday, 14 September 2026 on behalf of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Children's Play

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment she has made of the contribution of children's play to improving health, educational attainment and community cohesion.

Answer

The Government recognises that children’s play supports health, wellbeing, learning and social development, and can strengthen community cohesion by bringing children, families and residents together in shared local spaces. This is why the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government is investing £18 million through the Playground Fund to support 66 local authorities in England to create, improve or enhance up to 200 playgrounds in areas of greatest need. The fund targets places with higher levels of income deprivation affecting children and weaker existing playground provision, and supports high-quality, accessible and inclusive places to play.

Public playgrounds complement wider Government action to help children be healthier and more active by providing free, local opportunities for outdoor physical activity. The Department will monitor the Playground Fund to build evidence on best practice and interventions.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
27794
Session
2026-27
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Children's play
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk