THE OPEN OUTDOORS AWARD
THE SCOUT MOVEMENT FOR OVER A CENTURY, the Scout movement has been encouraging children and young people to develop life skills by spending time outdoors – and this mission continued in 2021, despite issues and restrictions posed by the coronavirus pandemic. TGO readers recognised this commitment during difficult times, with 22 per cent voting for the Scout movement. Voters described Scouting as a “lifeline for lots of young people during the pandemic” and “a great organisation that gets everyone outside and learning about the outdoors, nature and conservation”, whilst leaders were commended for showing “incredible creativity, despite Covid”.
Black Girls Hike
Founded by outdoors advocate Rhiane Fatinikun, Black Girls Hike is a community interest company (CIC) providing a safe space for
Black women to explore the outdoors. The organisation challenges the status quo and encourages Black women to reconnect with nature by hosting nationwide group hikes, outdoor activity days and training events.
One voter wrote an emotive appraisal of the group: “I have always wanted to enjoy nature and get away from the city, but I wouldn’t have known where to start if it wasn’t for BGH.
I didn’t know anyone who knew how to go hiking safely, what to wear, tips and tricks. But through BGH, I’ve learnt so much. It has been truly inspiring. I’ve had so much fun – I can’t honestly remember the last time I laughed so much – truly cathartic. This is something I will continue for the rest of my life; I cannot thank Black Girls Hike enough.”
Mind Over Mountains ▲
Set up by ultra-runner and adventurer
Alex Staniforth, Mind Over Mountains is a mental health charity offering “immediate and accessible support through therapeutic outdoor experiences”. From day hill-walks to weekend retreats, the charity runs events throughout the UK, with bursaries available to those with the most challenging lives. On winning the award, Alex Staniforth told TGO: “Despite the immense challenges of the pandemic, our charity has expanded our work even further across the UK to provide mental health support for those in most need. Being recognised with a TGO award really means the world and will help to promote our work to even more people.”