Glasgow residents seek inspiration in local parks

One third of families in Glasgow struggle to think of activities they can enjoy together in local parks and green spaces.

Article Source: ParkLives
Last Updated: 24 September 2015 18:52

New research from ParkLives, a free activity programme which is being delivered by Glasgow Life in partnership with Coca-Cola Great Britain, has found that almost one third of families in Glasgow struggle to think of activities they can enjoy together in local parks and green spaces.

A half (51%) of these families feel guilty about failing to use these local spaces to their full potential.

Just under three quarters (72%) of local parents and grandparents recognise the park as a great location to bring families together. Yet the research shows that a half of families (51%) don’t think they make enough use of the park, with three in 10 (29%) saying they struggle to find inspiration for what to do there.

Launched in 2014, the ParkLives programme offers free and fun activities for families across the city, giving them new ideas for making best use of local green spaces. Just under half (48%) of families in Glasgow believe their park is the heart of the community, and the research highlights a great opportunity for families to spend more quality time together, with 68% of respondents claiming that being in the park with their family would make them happier.

Liz Lowe, ParkLives lead at Coca-Cola Great Britain, said: “It’s no surprise to see just how valued local parks are to families within Glasgow. With the days starting to get shorter and the new school term underway, it’s really important that families stay active together whenever they get the opportunity – the local park is the perfect place to do this.

“We know it makes everyone in the family happier so it’s really important that we make parents and grandparents aware of the free activities – for all ages and abilities – going on right on their doorstep in Glasgow’s parks and green spaces.”

The sessions, which are typically an hour long, are all led by a trained activity leader. A full timetable – including a postcode park finder – can be found at www.parklives.com, where people can also register and book to save a space.

ParkLives is part of Coca-Cola Great Britain’s commitment to invest £20m between now and 2020 in programmes to encourage and support people to be physically active. The initiative is delivered in the City of Glasgow by Glasgow City Council and the council’s leisure trust, Glasgow Life.