Make UK Parks Safe for Children with SEN Who May Abscond

I am starting this petition because I am a parent of a child with Special Educational Needs (SEN) who absconds, and I know first-hand how frightening it can be when your child suddenly runs or wanders away.

For some children with autism, ADHD, learning disabilities or other additional needs, absconding can happen without warning. They may not understand danger, respond to their name or instructions, or recognise the risks of roads, car parks or open water.

A simple trip to the park — something that should be fun, relaxing and inclusive — can become a constant state of fear for families like mine.

Imagine having to watch your child every single second because one moment could mean they are through an open gate and heading towards danger.

Parents of SEN children should not have to avoid parks because they cannot be made reasonably safe for their children.

I am calling for local authorities and organisations responsible for public parks across the UK to consider SEN safety when designing, maintaining and improving these spaces.

This could include measures such as:

Secure, child-safe gates and fencing where appropriate
Safer entrances and exits
Consideration of nearby roads, car parks and bodies of water
Clear signage warning of nearby hazards
Better consideration of children who may abscond or wander
SEN-inclusive safety assessments when new parks are built or existing parks are refurbished
This petition is not about restricting children or preventing anyone from enjoying public spaces. It is about making our parks more inclusive and safer for children who have additional needs.

Every child deserves the opportunity to play outside, explore and have fun.

Every parent deserves to feel that their local park has considered the safety of all children.

And no family should have to live with the fear that a few seconds could turn a day at the park into a life-changing emergency.

Please sign and share this petition.

Together, we can ask for meaningful changes so that children with SEN can enjoy parks alongside everyone else — safely, inclusively and without their families having to live in constant fear.

Please, join me in calling for change. Sign this petition to ensure every park becomes a safe haven for all children.