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.

Over the last two years, extraordinary transformations have taken place across South and East Belfast 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. Working in partnership with 13 different organisations, 174 adults and children took part in Nextdoor Nature projects and activities. The projects have included working with Roma communities to support wildlife gardening and nature-themed family fun days, creating a sensory garden with a Barnardo’s women’s group,  linking with RNIB and Glentoran Football Club to establish a Mulch and Munch community garden and facilitating wildlife garden workshops for carers from Belfast Health and Social Care Trust. 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 of 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.”

Alexey Janes, Community Engagement Manager with Ulster Wildlife says:

“We’re over the moon about the success of this programme, and humbled by the astonishing work that the local communities have achieved. When communities are given the support to make a difference for nature, creative things happen, connecting nature and people. 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. Ulster Wildlife is 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.

Read Power to the People: Nextdoor Nature's legacy for communities and wildlife.

Find out more about our Nextdoor project and case studies