Welcome to Nature Buddies

Nature Buddies is an exciting initiative bringing people and nature closer together across Dorset. Made possible by a grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, this project is coordinated by the Dorset National Landscape team.

We’re working with local organisations to train new volunteers and upskill existing ones, embedding Nature Buddies as a lasting service across Dorset.

There are several ways to get involved – whether you’re interested in becoming a Nature Buddy, requesting support from one, or helping your organisation upskill volunteers to offer Nature Buddy support.

How Nature Buddies works

Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress, ease anxiety, and improve overall mental health. But not everyone finds it easy to access green spaces or feel confident engaging with the outdoors. That’s where Nature Buddies come in, offering a one-to-one connection that brings the benefits of nature to people in a way that’s accessible, personal and meaningful.

Nature Buddies are trained volunteers that provide one-to-one or small group support to help individuals gradually build confidence and enjoy engaging with nature. By encouraging participation in nature-based activities and helping participants overcome barriers, Nature Buddies tailor their support to what suits each person best. The support offered can be short-term or ongoing and includes planning and taking part in activities together, helping participants take steps towards a healthier, happier life.

We would love to hear from you if you are an organisation that would like to host Nature Buddies, if you’d like to volunteer as a Nature Buddy or if you are a Health Care Professional looking to refer into our Nature Buddies service.

Our Nature Buddies

There are two types of Nature Buddies

Organisational Nature Buddies
Volunteers are based in nature focussed groups or befriending organisations across Dorset, such as gardening or walking groups, country parks and environmental organisations. They support people to join in activities, encouraging regular involvement and helping them feel more confident in natural settings. The aim is for participants to eventually feel comfortable joining in on their own.

Community Nature Buddies (from home)
Volunteers provide one-to-one support to help people connect with nature from home, this could be through local walks, visits to heritage sites or home-based activities like gardening. The goal is to build confidence for independent engagement with nature. They are coordinated by Volunteer Centre Dorset and cover the Dorset Council area.

Further information

How can our organisation join Nature Buddies?

Information on how your organisation can host Nature Buddies.

How do I volunteer as a Nature Buddy?

Information on how to volunteer as a Nature Buddy.

How can I request a Nature Buddy?

Information for health care professionals who wish to refer clients to our Nature Buddy service and search for a Nature Buddy activity provider .

How can I request a Nature Buddy for myself?

Information on how to request a Nature Buddy for yourself.

Have a question?

Please email Kate and Jules at stepin2nature@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk or call Kate on 01305 228246. Please note Kate and Jules are part time and may not get back to you immediately. Thank you for your patience.

Nature Buddies is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players, we have funding until September 2026 to establish a network of Nature Buddies across Dorset, helping to make Dorset more inclusive and accessible to all.

Nature Buddies is delivered in partnership with Volunteer Centre Dorset