Feeling safe outdoors is important for our health because people’s perception of safety in a space is a key indicator of whether they will utilise that space. Thus, if our outdoor environments do not feel safe, then they will not be used.

A lack of engagement with outdoor environments is correlated with several negative physical and mental health outcomes. It is important that residents of Essex have ample access to the key health benefits of outdoor environments – social interactions, exercise, and access to green infrastructure and nature.

Outdoor environments must therefore be safe, inclusive, accessible, pro-social, and high quality to ensure that users will want to interact with them and receive the health benefits that they have the potential to offer.