Children keen for more time in nature
CHILDREN want more time in nature and parents are calling on the government to achieve its goal of providing access to green space within a 15 minute walk, according to a new survey.
The study, by First News and the National Trust, shows just over three quarters (76 per cent) of children asked said they want to spend more time in nature, but nearly two-thirds (63 per cent) of parents only take them once a week or less – citing accessibility as the main barrier
The results come as the National Trust and First News renew their call on the government to enshrine in law their ambition to ensure everyone has access to green or blue space within a 15-minute walk.
National Trust director general Hilary McGrady said: “The benefits of ensuring access to nature is plain to see, but there is unequal access to it.
“We’d like to see the largest improvement in access to urban green space since the Victorian era.
“We know from our own work, as well as the polling around this issue, there is huge public appetite to address these issues – it is a real vote winner.
“The impact that being in nature has on young people is profound and we need policy makers to stand up and develop a long-term plan to ensure everyone has access to green space.
“Research shows that if children and young people can engage with nature early in life, they grow up to care about the natural world and are more likely to take action to protect it.”
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First News are also launching a nature photography competition called ‘Nature Around Me’ to encourage young people to notice and engage with nature around them – no matter where they live.
First News editor Nicky Cox MBE said: “The best interests of children should be one of the most important considerations when governments are making laws.
“Local green spaces matter for everyone as they provide vital benefits such as promoting physical and mental health, fostering community connections and supporting biodiversity around us.
“Connecting children with nature is not just about exploring the outdoors, it’s about nurturing their curiosity, resilience and sense of wonder, laying the foundation for a more sustainable future.”
The survey was commissioned by First News and the National Trust to show the disparity in access to green space as well as the public demand for access.
It shows that nearly a third of parents surveyed from lower income households cite the main barrier to accessing nature as cost.
It also reveals that more than half of children want better access to nature and green space.
Research has shown access to green space benefits children in a variety of ways including better lung health, stronger bone density, as well as mental and physical wellbeing.
Government data shows 38 per cent of the country live more than a 15-minute walk from a green or blue space. and empathetic