We believe that forests are for everyone.
The National Forest was created to transform landscapes, lives and livelihoods. That transformation can only succeed when everyone feels welcome, represented and able to take part. Access to nature should be enjoyed by everyone and the benefits of forests should be available to all, regardless of background, identity, ability or circumstance.
We are committed to creating an inclusive Forest where people feel valued, respected and connected. Whether through our programmes, partnerships, volunteering, events, communications or recruitment, we aim to remove barriers to participation and create opportunities for more people to engage with and benefit from the Forest.
We put this commitment into practice by:
- Creating inclusive programmes and projects that reflect the needs and aspirations of diverse communities.
- Building a diverse and representative organisation, where different perspectives, experiences and talents are valued.
- Championing a culture of belonging and respect, so that everyone feels welcomed, supported and able to contribute.
- Using data, evidence and feedback to understand our impact, identify barriers and continually improve.
- Communicating in accessible and inclusive ways, helping more people connect with the National Forest and see themselves as part of its future.
We know that diverse perspectives make us stronger. By listening to different experiences, working with a broad range of communities and embracing new ideas, we can create better outcomes for nature, communities and enterprise. Inclusion helps us build a Forest that reflects the people it serves and inspires future generations to become part of its story.
Our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion is not a standalone activity. It is embedded in how we work, how we make decisions and how we deliver our vision. We are continually learning, improving and challenging ourselves to ensure the National Forest remains a place where everyone can belong, contribute and thrive.
Because forests are for everyone, and the future we are growing should be too.