Background Good quality green space, close to where people live, improves health and wellbeing. In deprived areas, where health is worse, there is less access to this health-promoting resource. Improving green space in these areas could help tackle health inequalities. Friends Groups consist of volunteers who act together to improve their local green space. Approximately 6000 such groups exist in the UK. This study aimed to explore how Friends Groups in deprived areas operate and whether relying on them to maintain green spaces, contributes to or mitigates against inequality.

Methods This study utilised qualitative methodology, influenced by ethnography. Seven case-studies in disadvantaged neighbourhoods in England participated: five ‘established’ Friends Groups and two ‘developing’. Data collection took place over three years and included participant observation, interviews, focus groups and ‘walk and talks’. Semi-structured interviews were also conducted with local authority park staff. Interviews/discussions were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim, reflective field-notes were kept throughout. Data analysis was initially by case to produce narrative accounts and then cross-case to identify explanatory success factors.

Results Successful Friends Groups were able to transform neglected, under-used green spaces into thriving community places, much used and appreciated by local people. A conceptual framework was developed that identified four domains affecting the success of groups: Place, People, Process and Power.

Group leaders played a key role. Commitment, perseverance and motivation were vital, whilst being confident, capable, with authority and connections improved chances of success. The relationship between local authorities and Friends Groups was often challenging, with conflict and disagreement leading to frustration and stress. Different perceptions of participation and control contributed to tensions. Loacl authority park teams were often unaware of issues relating to inequality.

Conclusion The findings raise concerns that, as the model currently operates, it could exacerbate green space inequalities. Some of the identified success domains pattern with deprivation. Deprived neighbourhoods, for example, are less likely to have leaders with the required qualities, capacity and connections for success, and park teams show a preference to working with more capable groups, who are likely to be in more affluent areas.

Recommendations include supporting Friend Groups in disadvantaged areas to strengthen their capabilities and capacity, and working with local authorities to encourage greater sharing of control with these potentially transformative community-based groups.