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Exploring the barriers, enablers, and strategies for improving access to greenspaces and the countryside for diverse communities: the Chalkscapes study

Research Output:
Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceeding
Conference contribution
Research

Sustainable Development Goals

  • SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being
    SDG 3 Good Health and Well

Abstract

Inequities in access to greenspaces and the countryside persist for underrepresented communities, despite growing evidence of their physical and mental health benefits. This qualitative study explored the perceptions and experiences of accessing greenspaces and the countryside among under-represented communities in Luton and Dunstable, UK, to understand community-specific barriers and enablers and to identify opportunities for more inclusive provision. Data were collected through 14 focus groups (n = 122) with community members. Participants reflected a wide range of ethnicities, ages, genders, and educational levels. Data were analysed thematically. Findings identified three overarching themes from the focus group workshops: (1) enablers for accessing greenspaces and the countryside, (2) barriers for accessing greenspaces and the countryside and (3) co-creating sustainable and scalable activities to overcome identified barriers. Overall access to greenspaces and the countryside is shaped by intersecting structural, social and cultural factors. Centring community voices, strengthening local relationships and adopting co-designed targeted approached are critical to improving equitable access and supporting sustained engagement with outdoor environments.

Publication Information

Output type

Research Output:
Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceeding
Conference contribution
Research

Host publication Subtitle

Integrating Green Spaces and 24-Hour Movement Behaviours for Combating NCDs. Book of abstracts

Original language

English

Pages from-to (Number of pages)

Pages 311

Publication milestones

  • Published - 09/09/2026

Publication status

Published - 09/09/2026

Publisher

University of Ljubljana, Slovenia

ISBN (Print)

9789612978792

Host publication title

HEPA EUROPE 2026: Green Pathways to Health:

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