……….especially around Braunton (although we know this applies everywhere !) was the message to Coastwise members from Jess Giblett, the newly-appointed Coordinator of the Connect 2 Nature Project based at Braunton Countryside Centre.
The project is HLF and Powervault funded, and the ambitious objectives include developing nature-based events, activities and experiences, marketing assets and online presence, developing new business income and fundraising streams, engage people usually disadvantaged from taking part in nature, and ensuring knowledge transfer of local biodiversity and ecological skills to the younger generation.
As well as the activities currently undertaken, there are more adventurous plans for wellness workshops in nature e.g., yoga, forest bathing, wildlife photography, foraging find and dine days, Citizen Science, nature-based crafting e.g., willow weaving, and experiential and immersive eco tours such as wildlife holidays, kayaking and star gazing.
The objective of promoting diversity and equal access to nature targets many activities for younger people, older / socially isolated people, ethnically diverse communities and disability groups, aiming to address barriers that people face in accessing nature, and promote health and wellbeing by taking part in nature.
To achieve all this, although two interns are budgeted for in the project, more volunteers are needed, and in addition the Centre needs a new Board of Trustees, Chair and Secretary, so if you would like to get involved, contact the Centre.