A Somerset nature engagement project has been seen as an outstanding success by the community.
The Doorstep to Neighbourhood Nature Engagement Project has reignited people's love for nature.
It led to more than 360 locals participating in various activities.
The project is supported by South West housing association LiveWest, and City Electrical Factors (CEF), who funded it with over £5,000.
Further collaboration with Quantock Hills National Landscape, Quantock Landscape Partnership Scheme, Somerset Wildlife Trust, and Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust ensured the delivery of various nature projects in the area.
Sally Hill, LiveWest’s community connector for the area, said: "It’s been wonderful to see everyone getting so involved in our nature project.
"It’s been great to work with CEF and Quantock Hills National Landscape, as well as other charitable and community partners."
Through a myriad of free nature-based activities, the initiative aimed to create memorable natural experiences for residents across Bridgwater, Hamp, Stockmoor, and the Wilstock area.
The project encouraged people of all ages to interact more with their local environment, echoing CEF's core value to ensure they can make a meaningful difference to the community and environment.
Atul Dattani, CEF’s director of social housing and merchant relationships, added: "CEF were delighted to be given the opportunity to support LiveWest and The Doorstep to Neighbourhood Nature Engagement Project."
Activities varied from nature kitchens, artwork, bug hunting, pond watching, rounders and walks, and took place at Meads Eco Park and The Country Park.
The funding secured from CEF ensured provision of necessary resources for the activities.
Engagement with multiple diverse organisations allowed for a variety of offerings that facilitated increased participation.
Iain Porter, manager of Quantock Hills National Landscape Team, said: "The Doorstep to Neighbourhood Nature Engagement Project pilot has demonstrated the added value from a true partnership project."
Further research from Derby University pointed out that engaging with nature leads to long-term benefits for local environments and people’s wellbeing.
Building on this success, LiveWest continues its efforts to engage more residents with nature and reduce carbon footprints across the South West.
The association also aims for all its homes to have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of C by 2028 to reduce carbon footprints.
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