A report published today reveals the striking results of a National Lottery Heritage Fund £5 million Nextdoor Nature programme which enabled Devon Wildlife Trust to work with communities across the Exeter area for two years. 

At a time when a recent UK Government evaluation of green prescribing showed that connections to nature can bring about big reductions in anxiety and depression symptoms and impressive improvements in well-being*, the benefits of the Nextdoor Nature programme for people are significant. Extraordinary transformations have taken place across Exeter over the last two years in communities that have often been traditionally or historically excluded from making decisions about nature and the environment in their local areas. The benefits of nature connectedness have never been better appreciated.

Nextdoor Nature has given people the skills, tools and opportunity to take action for nature. The Exeter projects have included working with in patients at an acute mental health hospital and elderly residents living in a sheltered housing complex. Nextdoor Nature’s legacy will live on beyond the end of the funding so that local communities can continue the work using their new skills and contacts.

95% of the participants in the Nextdoor Nature programme said that as a direct result of the project, there is now greater collaborative working between residents, local organisations and groups, and 82% feel there is now greater decision-making about wildlife in the hands of local people.

Eilish McGuinness, Chief Executive, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, says: 
“We were delighted to support this transformative project as it so strongly supports our vision for heritage to be valued, cared for and sustained for everyone.  This project delivers on our ambition to connect people and communities to heritage and the natural environment. I am delighted so many people are taking an active role in caring for nature and it has ignited a passion and commitment which will have positive impact for people and our environment into the future.”
 

Nikki Williams, Director Campaigning and Communities at The Wildlife Trusts says:
“We’re over the moon about the success of this programme, and humbled by the astonishing work that communities have achieved across the UK. When communities are given the support to make a differnce for nature, creative things happen, connecting nature and people together. We’re especially excited by the knowledge that these  changes form part of a sustainable legacy as more people become inspired to take action for nature where they live. The Wildlife Trusts are committed to bringing communities to the heart of decision-making. This has tangible and ongoing benefits to wildlife, nature and people.”

Many participants expressed that the project gave them a purpose and increased their sense of community. Engaging in collective efforts to improve local nature made them feel like they were part of something bigger, contributing to a common goal and enhancing their pride in their local area. “It gives me purpose and a 'joyous boost', it has increased my sense of community,” said one participant. “It has contributed to a sense of purpose and belonging,” said another.