Northumberland Wildlife Trust Calls on Youth to Become ‘Habitat Heroes’ in Newcastle
Following the resounding success of its inaugural event earlier this summer, the Northumberland Wildlife Trust is inviting young people aged 16–24 to reconnect with the natural world through a second installment of its popular “Habitat Heroes” initiative.
Taking place on September 8 from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm in Newcastle, the event aims to empower the next generation to take an active role in urban conservation. As growing evidence suggests that time spent in nature is a vital component of mental health and personal development, the trust is positioning this event as more than just a workshop—it is an opportunity to build life skills.
Cultivating Well-being Through Nature
Research from the University of Glasgow has highlighted the profound impact of nature on younger generations, noting that increased exposure to green spaces correlates with significantly improved mental health. For young people, the outdoors serves as a space to breathe and reflect, but the benefits extend far beyond relaxation.
“Outdoor learning helps raise self-esteem, confidence, and resilience,” the Trust notes. “By working together to solve problems and navigate unfamiliar environments, young people develop life skills that translate far beyond the garden gate.”
Hands-on Conservation
The upcoming session will be held in partnership with the Wild Roots Community Garden in Ouseburn. Attendees will be guided by Nick Figgis, an Urban Wildlife Community Gardener, who will demonstrate how man-made habitats can support diverse wildlife populations within a bustling city environment.
The event offers a variety of immersive workshops designed to provide practical, transferable knowledge:
- Pond Exploration: Led by Trustee and pond expert Mike Jeffries, participants will head to the water’s edge to uncover the hidden ecosystems thriving beneath the surface.
- Sustainable Crafting: A unique workshop will show participants how to transform common stinging nettles into natural cordage for bracelets and necklaces.
- Habitat Building: Attendees will get hands-on experience creating dedicated spaces for insects, birds, and small mammals, providing them with the expertise to recreate these features in their own neighborhoods.
Part of a Broader Mission
‘Habitat Heroes 2’ is a cornerstone of the wider Championing Nature Project, an ambitious programme supported by The Championships, Wimbledon and Emirates. The project is designed to create a lasting, positive impact on urban communities by fostering deeper, more sustainable connections between people and their local wildlife.
Tom Jepson, Nature Connection Officer at Northumberland Wildlife Trust, is encouraging young people from across the North East to participate. “This will be a great event to meet new people and get involved in multiple workshops about the natural world,” he said. “Please come along and meet the team—we’d love to see you.”
How to Attend
While the event is completely free of charge, booking is essential to ensure that all participants have the necessary equipment to take part in the activities.
Young people interested in joining the movement can reserve their spot via the Northumberland Wildlife Trust website. For those looking to learn more about the long-term goals of the Championing Nature initiative, further information is available on the Trust’s project page.
