The Play Commission’s Interim Report: A Watershed Moment for Play Policy
The publication of the Play Commission’s interim report, State of Play – Raising the Nation, marks a significant milestone in the journey towards securing a brighter, more playful future for children across England. This interim report provides initial findings and recommendations, with the full report—covering all themes of the Commission—set to be published on 11 June, the International Day of Play. The report not only validates what Play England, and our allies have long championed but also amplifies our calls for Play Sufficiency legislation and a new National Play Strategy—cornerstones of our manifesto.
For decades, Play England has been at the forefront of advocating for children’s right to play. From influencing policy to supporting local initiatives, our work has been instrumental in shaping the play landscape in England. The Play Commission’s findings are a testament to the persistence of our efforts and the growing recognition of play as a fundamental component of childhood, wellbeing, and community cohesion.
Play England’s Role in Shaping the Momentum for Change
The renewed national conversation around play, culminating in the Play Commission’s interim report, has been driven by sustained advocacy from Play England and the wider play sector. Through research, policy engagement, and grassroots mobilisation, we have laid the groundwork for meaningful policy reform.
Recent successes underscore this momentum. The inclusion of formal play spaces in the revised National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) is a major manifesto win, ensuring that local authorities consider play in planning decisions. Additionally, the growing political support for our campaign was reflected in cross-party MP backing for Play Sufficiency legislation and a National Play Strategy.
Our evidence submission to the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill Committee has further reinforced the case for embedding play within public health and education policy. These achievements demonstrate the increasing recognition of play’s vital role and the necessity of national legislation to ensure every child has access to high-quality play opportunities.
Our call for Play Sufficiency legislation is central to this. The report highlights the patchwork nature of play provision across England, reinforcing our argument that a statutory duty is needed to ensure every child, regardless of their postcode, has access to high-quality, inclusive and accessible play opportunities. The success of Play Sufficiency in Wales and Scotland has demonstrated the power of such an approach, and now is the time for England to follow suit.
Additionally, the Commission’s recognition of the need for a new National Play Strategy aligns directly with our advocacy. A coordinated, cross-government approach to play policy would ensure that play is embedded in urban planning, education, health, and community development—delivering real change for children and families.
Key Advocates in the Play Commission
The Play Commission benefits from the expertise and leadership of the commissioners, which includes our Executive Director Eugene Minogue and Board member Dr. Helen Dodd. Their contributions to the report and their longstanding commitment to children’s play have helped to shape the findings and reinforce the urgency of policy change. Their insights bring vital academic and strategic perspectives that strengthen the case for Play Sufficiency legislation and a National Play Strategy.
Play England’s Thanks and Gratitude
Play England extends our sincere thanks and gratitude to Baroness Anne Longfield from the Centre of Young Lives and Paul Lindley OBE, Chair of the Play Commission, for their unwavering commitment to improving the state of play in England. Their leadership and dedication have been instrumental in driving forward this critical agenda, ensuring that play remains a national priority. We appreciate their efforts in leading the Play Commission’s work and advocating for meaningful policy change.
A Historic Opportunity
The Play Commission’s interim findings present a historic opportunity. With the full report set for release on 11 June, this is a critical moment to ensure that its final recommendations lead to lasting change to place play at the heart of public policy. We urge policymakers to act decisively and respond to the growing consensus that children’s play is not an optional extra but an essential right. With Play England’s long-standing expertise and commitment, we stand ready to support the next steps towards a play-positive future.
We encourage everyone—parents, educators, policymakers, and play advocates—to read the Play Commission’s interim report and join us in making the case for Play Sufficiency legislation and a new National Play Strategy. Together, we can turn this momentum into lasting change for children across England.
Stay connected with Play England as we continue this crucial campaign. The time for action is now.