Charity’s Nature Trips Support Disadvantaged Youth

A charitable organization is conducting excursions to help disadvantaged young people engage with nature. The Field Studies Council is one of several entities contributing to the £4.5 million Generation Green 2 project. By next spring, this initiative is expected to have facilitated over 41,500 “nature connection” experiences for young individuals, offering both day and residential trips nationwide. Mark Castle, CEO of the council, stated: “We’re excited to be providing unique experiences and guided access to nature for the young people most in need of opportunity.” The year-long project, which commenced in spring 2024, has so far enabled nearly 6,000 young people to participate in experiences across England. The Field Studies Council has utilized several of its natural beauty sites and anticipates hosting almost 4,000 young people throughout the project, having received nearly £800,000 in funding. The council’s Nettlecombe Court, located within Exmoor National Park, will offer 413 young people various activities, including swimming at local river sites and visiting Porlock Bay. Research indicates that poorer communities and individuals from ethnic minorities in the UK have the least access to green spaces, with 18% of children in the most deprived areas never spending time in any natural environments. Robyn Landy, education team leader at Nettlecombe Court, informed BBC Radio Somerset that some young participants “can be really unsure and fearsome” upon their initial arrival from the coach. She commented: “It’s really nice seeing the change in those students become more comfortable in their surroundings as they explore.” Mr. Castle remarked: “Over recent months, we’ve already seen their [young people’s] eyes widen, horizons expand, and possibilities multiply for their future relationship with the natural environment.” He added: “For many of us, we take being able to step outside and explore the natural world for granted.”