Make Space for Girls focuses on the needs of teenage girls because they are one of the groups most often overlooked in the design of parks and public spaces. However, this is not about creating spaces exclusively for girls.
Many of the changes that girls tell us they want, such as places to socialise, opportunities for informal activity, better lighting, clearer wayfinding, welcoming layouts and a stronger sense of belonging, also benefit non-binary and gender diverse young people and the wider community.
Creating parks that work better for teenage girls is often a route to creating parks that work better for more people.
"A place that lets me know I'm allowed to be there."”
""A place where you feel safe and welcomed."
"I think the best people to ask what teens want is the teens themselves."
These figures don't mean facilities should be removed.
They do suggest we need to ask whether parks are working equally well for everyone.
1. Talk to girls
Teenage girls are experts in their own lives. Meaningful engagement should be the starting point for any review of parks and public spaces.
2. Look at who is using spaces
Don't just count facilities. Observe who is using them and who isn't.
3. Think beyond sport
Sports facilities matter. But many girls also want opportunities for socialising, hanging out, swinging, climbing, relaxing and informal activity.
4. Consider safety differently
Safety isn't just about crime statistics. It includes visibility, belonging, comfort and confidence.
5. Start small
Better seating, lighting, signage, planting, swings and activation activities can all make a difference
Our aim is to share evidence, examples and practical starting points so that local areas can consider the best approach for their own parks and public spaces.
We hope this page helps councils, planners, developers, designers and community groups begin to ask the right questions, review local provision and explore what would make parks more welcoming for teenage girls.Where we have capacity, we may be able to offer training, advice or consultancy support, usually where funding is available.
If you would like to share feedback generally, tell us how you are using these resources, or ask about possible support, please complete the form below. We will do our best to respond or signpost you where we can and continue to add to our resources available.
Do check out the resources below.
Make Space for Girls is a small charity. Our aim is to share evidence, examples and practical starting points so that local areas can consider the best approach for their own parks and public spaces.
We hope this page helps councils, planners, developers, designers and community groups begin to ask the right questions, review local provision and explore what would make parks more welcoming for teenage girls.Where we have capacity, we may be able to offer training, advice or consultancy support, usually where funding is available.
If you would like to share feedback generally, tell us how you are using these resources, or ask about possible support, please complete the form below. We will do our best to respond or signpost you where we can and continue to add to our resources available.
Do check out the resources below.
CPD
Find out more about training we offer and asking us to speak at your events.
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