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We’re proud to lead a new project aimed at reconnecting people with nature, particularly those from communities who may not currently feel welcome in green spaces. Thanks to support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Getting to know your Greenspace will run through to December 2027, with the goal of making the outdoors more accessible, inclusive, and meaningful for all.
17 Jul 2025
Despite the many benefits of nature, not everyone feels able to enjoy their local green spaces. Whether it’s a lack of confidence, physical barriers, cultural disconnect, or the sense that “this place isn’t for me,” many people are missing out. That’s where this project comes in.
“We’re proud to be leading this important work across the Forest,” said Gill Forrester, Community and Wellbeing Manager at the National Forest. “Everyone deserves access to nature. This project is about listening, learning, and working together to change that.”
The project will focus on three towns in the Forest: Burton upon Trent, Swadlincote, and Coalville. In each location, we’ll work hand-in-hand with local authorities and grassroots organisations - including South Derbyshire CVS, Support Staffordshire, and Coalville CAN -to understand the barriers that prevent some communities from accessing green spaces.
With a grant of £248,878, Getting to know your Greenspace will do more than just identify problems – it will create solutions. Through co-created events, confidence-building activities, and volunteering opportunities, the project will invite new audiences into nature and build long-term relationships between people and place.
Nature is not just good for the environment - it’s essential for our wellbeing. Woodland visits in England are estimated to bring £162 million annually in mental health benefits alone. Being outdoors reduces stress, encourages physical activity, and strengthens community ties.
Yet access remains unequal. Nationally, only 14 per cent of households have woodland within a short walking distance of home, and people on lower incomes or from ethnically diverse backgrounds often face the greatest barriers to getting outside.
By breaking these barriers down, the project is helping to build a greener, fairer future—one where everyone has the chance to feel at home in nature.
“This isn’t just a short-term project,” said Gill. “It’s part of the National Forest’s wider vision of a forest for everyone - one that connects people and nature, and ensures the benefits are felt by all.”
Liz Bates, Director for England, Midlands & East at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, agrees. “Thanks to National Lottery players, we’re pleased to support this work. Reconnecting people with natural heritage brings wide-ranging benefits for individuals and communities.”
With collaboration, creativity, and community at its heart, Getting to know your Greenspace is a vital step toward stronger, healthier, and more inclusive green spaces across the National Forest—and a reminder that nature is, and should be, for everyone.
If you'd like to help us to continue to make a difference then there are lots of ways you to support us.
