Championing Nature

What is Championing Nature?

Championing Nature is a new programme aimed at creating positive, lasting impact in urban communities through greater connections and engagement with nature.

The multi-million-pound programme will be delivered over the next six years by four Wildlife Trusts: Northumberland Wildlife Trust, the London Wildlife Trust; Birmingham and Black Country Wildlife Trust; and the Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside.

Each Wildlife Trust including Northumberland, will receive investment from The All England Lawn Tennis Club and Emirates to fund bespoke projects and initiatives in their local urban areas, with a particular focus on bringing disadvantaged children, young people aged 16-24, and families closer to nature, and creating a lasting infrastructure legacy for the benefit of future generations.

Research conducted on behalf of the four Wildlife Trusts indicated that roughly one out of eight children from low socio-economic backgrounds aged under 12 has never experienced nature. Lack of green space facilities nearby (21%) and the cost of transport (17%) to get to the nearest green space facilities were identified by parents as two of the key barriers to their children spending more time in nature. Parents identified improved mood (48%), overall happiness (48%), more active (42%) and better physical health (35%) as the top positive changes within their children after they had spent time in nature.

Each Wildlife Trust will deliver a bespoke programme to make nature more accessible through a combination of infrastructure projects, learning initiatives and engaging outreach events.

Launch Day 20^th May 2025

Championing Nature was officially launched at the AELTC’s Community Tennis Centre at Raynes Park, with representatives of the four Wildlife Trusts, All England Club and Emirates. They were joined by programme ambassador, Steve Backshall MBE, to mark a collective commitment to creating lasting change through positive community engagement and increased connection to nature.

Steve Backshall MBE, who is renowned for his lifelong passion and commitment to nature, said: “I’ve seen first-hand the remarkable benefits that a closer connection to nature and the outdoors can provide. The Championing Nature programme is a great opportunity to encourage children, young people and families living in urban environments to discover and explore the green spaces around them. Through my role as President of Berks, Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust, I’m familiar with the fantastic work these organisations do to protect wildlife and enhance the natural environment. The four Wildlife Trusts have some exciting plans ready to roll out, thanks to the support of the Championing Nature programme, and I am looking forward to seeing the positive difference they will make to the lives of many.

What does this funding mean for Northumberland Wildlife Trust?

Nature and wildlife are under real pressure - across the UK and here in Northumberland. Habitats are being lost, pollution is affecting our environment, and climate change is making things harder for wildlife to survive. Locally, even though we’re surrounded by beautiful landscapes, many species are declining and not everyone has easy access to green space. That’s especially tough for young people and families, because it means fewer safe places to play, explore, and enjoy the outdoors. By protecting nature and making it more accessible, we’re helping wildlife thrive - and helping people feel healthier, happier, and more connected to the world around them. 

What will the project deliver?

Thanks to the Championing Nature initiative and the generous support from AELTC and Emirates, we’re able to run a variety of exciting and impactful initiatives across the area. One of the key areas is working with schools and education settings, where we’ll be working with educators in long term partnerships to help them to take young people outdoors as much as possible. We will also be delivering nature-based educational activities and outdoor experiences that help young people learn about conservation, wildlife and their environment. 

We’re also developing a tailored programme for 16-24 year olds, which could offer opportunities to engage in conservation work, gain skills and connect with nature through hands-on activities. These projects will be developed over time working directly with the young people themselves. Alongside this, we’re running a youth social action project that empowers young people to take meaningful action in their communities, whether that’s through environmental volunteering or leading initiatives to protect local wildlife. 

We’re also excited to further develop our Young People's Forum, where young people have a voice in how we shape our projects, run their own campaigns and advocacy work. Additionally, we’ll be running family-friendly activities and events during school holidays, giving local families the chance to get outside, have fun and learn together about the importance of nature in their lives. 

Each of these initiatives is designed to make nature more accessible and to help young people develop the skills and confidence to be future environmental leaders. The Championing Nature initiative, and the support we receive from partners like Wimbledon and Emirates, is vital in helping us achieve our mission. This backing enables us to scale up our work, reach more young people, and have a greater impact on local wildlife recovery and community engagement. 

Get involved!

Further information on our specific programme of events and activities will be available in the coming weeks including updates on how local communities can get involved.