Children, Young People, and the Built Environment Inquiry
In Spring 2023, along with other wider-sector partners, Play England submitted a briefing to (the then) Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (LUHC) Commons Select Committee setting out the need for a parliamentary inquiry into children, young people, and the built environment. This subject had never been the focus of a committee inquiry before and has never been more needed. Therefore, it was a hugely significant step forward for children and young people when an inquiry was announced in November 2023.
The inquiry received 132 submissions of written evidence from various cross-sector organisations and experts. This was followed by three oral evidence sessions in early 2024. The evidence submitted to the inquiry is stark, compelling, and powerful in demonstrating the urgent need for change.
However, following the Dissolution of Parliament on 30 May 2024, all committees ceased to exist. As such, there is no guarantee that a committee report and/or a government response will be published.
Following the general election in July 2024, the nominations and elections process for the chairs of the various select committees was completed in early Sept 2024.
Therefore, Play England have written to the new Chair of Housing, Communities and Local Government (HCLG) select committee, Florence Eshalomi MP to request that the new committee consider re-opening the inquiry and publish a report – and for the government to respond and act on the recommendations.
Reopening the committee inquiry and publishing a report, which reflects evidence - would provide a powerful and a high-profile catalyst for much needed meaningful change in England.
It would also support the government’s legislative agenda, ensure that the importance of play is recognised, valued, and protected across government, and secure a lasting legacy for our future generations by giving children their childhood back!
Download a pdf copy of the letter to the Chair of the Housing, Communities & Local Government Committee.