Every child deserves time, space and freedom to play
Here in Sandwell we believe every child has the right to play, have fun, make friends and feel safe.
Play helps children grow, learn new things, stay healthy and feel happy.
That is why Sandwell Council carried out a Play Sufficiency Assessment in 2025. This looks at whether children have enough time, space and opportunities to play where they live.
It also supports our Child Friendly Sandwell principles by helping adults understand what children need and by making sure children's voices help shape decisions
What did we find?
We listened to more than 2,200 children, young people, parents and professionals across Sandwell.
Children told us that play means:
- Having fun
- Being with friends
- Feeling free
- Exploring and being active
- Doing things they enjoy
Many children are happy with their opportunities to play. However, some children face challenges that make play harder. These include:
- Busy roads and traffic
- Worries about safety
- Not enough time to play
- Too few places to meet friends
- Barriers faced by disabled children and other groups of children who need extra support
They also said that they want:
- More places to play close to home
- Safer streets
- More chances to play with friends after school
- Parks and open spaces that are fun and welcoming
- Adults who listen to them
- More freedom to get around safely
Children also told us that they want their communities to feel safe and friendly so that playing outside is easier.
What happens next?
Sandwell Council and its partners will work together to make Sandwell even better for children.
The assessment highlights seven priorities:
1. Better play in schools
Make school playtimes and activities after school more playful and enjoyable.
2. More outdoor play
Help children spend more time playing outside with friends after school.
3. Support for children facing extra barriers
Make sure disabled children and other children who need extra support can play too.
4. Safer streets
Reduce the impact of traffic and make neighbourhoods more child friendly.
5. Stronger communities
Help parents feel confident that their children can play safely.
6. Balance screen time and outdoor play
Encourage children to enjoy both digital activities and outdoor play.
7. Protect places to play
Look after parks, playgrounds, school playtimes and other places where children play.
Read the report
Want to learn more?
Executive Summary
A short and easy-to-read version of the findings:
Full Play Sufficiency Assessment 2025
The complete report with all the research and recommendations: