THE PARTNERSHIP which supported the independent People’s Plan for Nature has launched a new initiative, Nature Neighbourhoods. The project will support community organisations across the UK to create people-powered plans for nature in their neighbourhoods, helping to tackle the global nature and climate crisis at a local level.
The People’s Plan for Nature showed us that people want to take action for nature in their communities, and to hold themselves and others to account. It calls for greater investment in ways to help communities protect and renew nature at a neighbourhood level. Nature Neighbourhoods is a direct response to this call.
The RSPB, the National Trust and WWF have received £750,000 from the National Lottery Community Fund, the largest community funder in the UK, as well as £300,000 from Co-op to deliver the Nature Neighbourhoods project. This project will help 18 voluntary and community partners across the UK to mobilise their communities and lead positive change for nature and people through the creation of Nature Neighbourhood Plans. The project will deliver a two-year support programme for partners, financial aid of up to £25,000 per neighbourhood, and support for building collaborations with local authorities.
The national charities will work closely with local organisations such as community centres, social enterprises, and volunteer food growing collectives. These community organisations will be supported to bring together local residents, businesses and decision makers to create a long-term, people-powered plan for nature and climate action that centres on their neighbourhood’s unique priorities.
Nature Neighbourhoods will also be given access to Co-op’s unique network of Member Pioneers, who bring people together to inspire and empower them to change the game. Member Pioneers work to tackle the big issues Co-op members and their communities care about, to connect and co-operate to create happy, healthy communities for everyone.
Nature Neighbourhoods will primarily focus on urban communities across the UK, with projects in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. While most people live in towns and cities, there are often substantial barriers to accessing nature in urban environments, along with higher social and economic inequalities.
This project aims to help more people benefit from all the advantages nature can bring, in being right on their doorstep.