Evaluating a new inclusively designed outdoor play and recreation space : a caregivers’ perspective

Background: Inclusively designed play and recreation spaces are created to facilitate equal opportunities for all. In 2022 a customised play and recreation space in Ireland was co-designed with service users and their families. Co-design and evaluation of these inclusive play and recreation spaces with families who use these spaces are of importance. A gap in literature was identified from the caregiver's perspective evaluating fully inclusive play spaces in the Irish context. Aim: This qualitative study sought to evaluate from caregiver’s perspective what works, what does not work and what could be improved in the inclusive play and recreation space. Method: Informed by participatory action research, this study was implemented across three key phases: (a) co-designing the research with participants; (b) completing semi-structured interviews online with six participants; (c) member checking to validate findings. Furthermore, data was analysed using content analysis. Outcome: Analysis resulted in emerging themes including: aspects of the play and recreation space that work, do not work, fostering inclusion and belonging through design and suggested recommendations for extending play opportunities. Conclusion: Evaluating the fully inclusive play and recreation spaces fosters families' sense of inclusion and belonging in playspace design. The value of including caregivers in the evaluation process provided an insight into how families use the play and recreation space and recommendations for the future were acknowledged. Implications for OT Practice: This research highlights the correlation between occupation and environment and the impact the built environment can have on engagement in play and leisure occupations