Young people are influential in the future use and management of parks and local greenspaces and their involvement is pivotal. This last question explored how young people could get involved, the leadership opportunities they could take on and how their involvement would support their wellbeing.

From leading activities and events, to taking part in litter collection and managing vegetation, to creating social media pages to publicise park activities and increase engagement, young people said they want to increase youth leadership activities. They show a willingness to be involved and to have their voices and opinions heard, but local parks need to reach out and engage young people in these opportunities and make it easy and accessible for young people to participate.

Young people also want a legitimate role in decision-making. The future of parks and greenspaces should be shaped with and by young people as equal citizens.

This could change the relationship positively between young people and assets such as parks and greenspaces in their communities. But to unlock the benefits for young people, the community and park management, parks need to be more accessible and inclusive.

“Not only would this provide work experience but it could also provide participants with a deep sense of satisfaction along with a greater appreciation for the outdoors… it could encourage better health and lifestyle choices.” Max, 17

“… when I've talked about it with my peers, it's more that they just don’t know of events or things going on in their local parks and so they miss them, which is the biggest issue. Young people could easily and happily get involved in the same events that have gone on before.” Francesca, 19

“… promoting more educational opportunities, including outdoor lectures/ talks/ workshops that are youth-focused and led by young people. Finding ways of making them safer spaces especially for people who are alone – greater presence of park rangers/ patrol, better lighting, etc.,” Beatrice, 21