When we talk about access to physical activity – transport and cost often dominate the conversation. But across our Community Partnership Learning in Boston, another factor emerged strongly: how spaces feel.
Parks, play areas and community spaces exist in many neighbourhoods, yet they’re not always used. For the children, young people and families we spoke to, the question was not “Is there a park nearby?” but “Do I feel safe being there?”
Perception shapes behaviour
In Boston, feedback consistently referenced antisocial behaviour, poorly maintained equipment and lack of lighting or supervision. Over time, some spaces developed a local reputation as “no‑go” areas. Once that perception is established, it becomes self‑reinforcing, leading to further underuse and disengagement.
This isn’t unique to Boston, nor is it about isolated incidents. It’s about the lived experience of using a space day to day. Safety, in this context, is as much about visibility, activity and care as it is about crime.
When spaces look neglected or empty, they’re less inviting. When there’s no clear presence or sense of shared ownership, people withdraw.
Why this matters for activity
For many families, parks and green spaces are the most accessible form of physical activity. They’re free, local and familiar. When these spaces feel unsafe or unwelcoming, opportunities for everyday movement are lost.
Children stop playing outside, families avoid walking routes and informal activity declines, even though the infrastructure technically exists. This reinforces a wider learning – access is emotional as well as physical.
A shift in focus
Our learning has prompted a shift away from simply thinking about additional provision, and towards making better use of what already exists.
This means:
- Understanding how spaces are experienced, not just whether they exist
- Working alongside community safety partners
- Thinking about activation, not just maintenance
- Encouraging visible, positive use of spaces
Small changes can make such a significant difference. When spaces are busy, cared for and clearly used by others, perceptions begin to shift.
Connecting systems around Place
Creating safer, more welcoming spaces cannot sit with one organisation alone. Parks teams, community safety, youth services, schools, health and VCSE organisations all have a role to play.
Our learning highlights the importance of system coordination around Place. When partners work in isolation, gaps appear but when efforts align, spaces become more resilient.
Looking ahead
Feeling safe is not an added extra – it’s foundational. As we move forward, the learning from Boston reminds us that physical activity is deeply connected to wider conversations about Place, belonging and trust. By listening carefully to community experience and working collectively, we can begin to reshape how local spaces support everyday movement.
