Exploring socio-ecological factors that influence the use of urban greenspace: a case study of a deprived ethnically diverse community in the UK

Abstract

Urban greenspaces are considered an important health asset associated with improved population health and well-being. However, inequalities in access to and use of the outdoors continue to exist, particularly among low- income and minority ethnic populations. Following a socio-ecological approach, this study aimed to investigate the individual, interpersonal, and environmental factors that influence the use of greenspaces among an ethnically diverse community in the UK and explore strategies to increase use. A mixed-methods cross-sectional community survey was conducted between March and June 2022 with residents of two ethnically diverse towns situated in Southeast England, UK. Data were collected on factors that influence greenspace use alongside demographic information on age, ethnicity, and social deprivation. An open-ended question explored respondents’ views on strategies to increase engagement with greenspaces. The survey was completed by 906 participants aged between 16 and 94 (60.7% female; 94.5% non-white British). The findings revealed that age, gender, perceived importance of using greenspaces, awareness of greenspaces, and the natural environment were all significant predictors of greenspace use. Qualitative evidence supported these findings and provided useful strategies for increasing access. The findings have provided an increased understanding of the factors that influence greenspace use and suggest that to improve access. There is a clear need to improve the quality of the available green spaces, making them safe and visually appealing to the local communities they serve. Increasing awareness and providing more opportunities for social and intergenerational interaction were also considered important strategies for increasing use.