The geography of poverty matters. Research shows that a lack of or poorly maintained public space affects a child's ability to participate and learn, adversely affecting relationships. Green space has not only proven to deliver improved health and wellbeing, but it can also reduce the impact of deprivation and help foster a strong community.
A key concern for parents is the safety of their children when playing in their locality. They openly spoke of a lack of clean, safe outdoor space for children to meet and play and where there is community space it was felt it didn't meet the needs of the community. Children echoed the thoughts of their parents and felt frustrated when their localities were unpleasant or damaged.