Parents missing out on the mental health boost of a walk

New research released ahead of Living Streets’ Walk to School Week finds that one in ten parents (10%) go for a walk for pleasure less than once a month. However, when they do go for a walk, parents who responded to the YouGov poll reported feeling like their fitness (51%) and mental health (60%) improve. 

Next week is Living Streets’ Walk to School Week (18-22 May 2026). Families are encouraged to walk, wheel, cycle, scoot or ‘Park and Stride’ for the whole week to see the big differences that come from small steps, from healthier and happier children to fewer cars outside the school gates. 

Over 260,000 children across the UK are signed up to take part in a special challenge from the charity, which will see them transform into secret agents as they explore the benefits of walking and wheeling. 

Only 51 per cent of children aged 5–10-year-olds in England normally walk to school, down from 70 per cent in the 1970s. 

Tanya Braun, Director of External Affairs and Fundraising, Living Streets said:  

“Walk to School Week is a fantastic opportunity for families to try leaving the car at home and enjoy the health and happiness benefits that come from walking. 

“We all lead busy lives, but the school run is the perfect opportunity to fit a bit more movement into our day, swapping out time spent in traffic for time spent together. It’s the highlight of my day and I encourage as many families as possible to get out and enjoy the boost it brings.”

Events are taking place across the UK for Walk to School Week, following @LivingStreets on social media for all the latest news. 

Tanya walking with her children