Playgrounds should be places of freedom, fun and learning. For children, they’re where adventures begin and confidence grows. However, every year, over 40,000 children in the UK are injured while using playground equipment, and many of those injuries are avoidable.

At Switalskis, we’ve supported families whose lives have been turned upside down after a serious accident on a playground. Sometimes, the cause is simple misadventure, but in too many cases, poor maintenance, design flaws or a lack of supervision are to blame.

Why do playground injuries happen?

While small bumps and bruises are part of growing up, more serious injuries can often be traced to failings such as:

• Broken, rusty or poorly maintained equipment
• Surfaces that don’t meet safety standards (e.g. hard concrete rather than impact-absorbing materials)
• Lack of age-appropriate equipment or warning signage
• Poor visibility or fencing near roads
• Supervision failures at nurseries, schools or holiday clubs

Children have a right to play in safe spaces. And where a local authority, school, private provider or equipment manufacturer has failed in their duty, they may be legally responsible.

Common injuries we see

• Fractures and broken bones from unsafe falls
• Head injuries caused by faulty swings or climbing frames
• Lacerations or impalement on broken metal or wood
• Internal injuries or organ damage from impact
• Psychological trauma or anxiety after a serious fall

Some of these require surgery, rehabilitation or specialist care. In the most serious cases, the impact can last a lifetime.

What to do if your child is injured at a playground

If your child is seriously injured, your first priority is of course getting them the medical help they need. But once the initial shock fades, it’s also worth:

• Reporting the accident to the local authority, school or park provider
• Taking photos of the equipment and surroundings
• Asking witnesses for their details
• Keeping records of medical appointments, diagnoses and expenses
• Seeking legal advice if you believe negligence was involved

You don’t need to have all the answers, that’s what we’re here for.

How we  can help

At Switalskis, our experienced personal injury solicitors understand how difficult it is to see your child hurt, and how overwhelming it can feel to start a legal process. We offer free, no-obligation advice to help you understand whether you have a claim, and we’ll support you every step of the way if you do choose to pursue a personal injury claim.

A claim can help cover:

• Private medical treatment or therapy
• Travel costs and time off work
• Any long-term support needed

Another important aspect of a claim is holding those responsible to account so that other children are protected from the same injury.

We work with paediatric experts, playground safety professionals and emotional support services to ensure your child’s full needs are met.

Worried about a recent accident?

If your child has been seriously injured at a playground and you’re not sure what to do next, speak to our team. We’ll listen, advise and guide you through your options - always with care and clarity. Call 0800 18 0458 email help@switalskis.com or fill in the form below.