Stepping in a new direction!

Join us as we launch the Nature Buddy Network.

A new way to connect people with the health and wellbeing benefits of nature through a coordinated volunteer scheme.

About Stepping into Nature

Our beautiful Dorset landscape is full of opportunities to enjoy nature in fun, social and creative ways.

For some of us though, finding opportunities to enjoy nature that suits our needs are harder to come by. Ability, confidence, and age can all influence what we can and can’t do.

The Stepping into Nature project was about listening to our community in Dorset and working in partnership to enable everyone to enjoy nature.

How has Stepping into Nature helped our community in Dorset?

The focus 2016-2023 was on supporting our older adults, people living with dementia and care partners enjoy nature, thanks to National Lottery Community Funding.

Through the partnership, the project helped the environment sector understand more about dementia and ran sociable, sensory and nature inspired activities. Communities in Dorset received grants to improve local opportunities to enjoy nature and nature was bought into our homes through the creation of seasonal books, captivating stories, and artistic packs.

Stepping into Nature Conference 2022 (C) Ben Ingram

Achievements

Here’s just a smidgen of what the Stepping into Nature project has achieved over the past 3 years…

Over 680 people attended group activities
Over 86 group activities offered – walks, talks, creative workshops
Over 1000 ‘Your Seasons of Stories’ artist boxes
Over 2500 ‘Seasons of Stories’ books
6 new stories telling the story of the landscape and wildlife to hand drawn animations
12 self led walking guides exploring local towns and villages.
10 relaxing 1-minute films highlighting the natural beauty of Dorset.
Over 17 000 views on Picnic in the Parks – an online resource hub of activity and ideas to explore nature – including digital versions of all the above!
Over £100 000 awarded in community grants to increase opportunities to enjoy nature.