Natural Neighbours

Natural Neighbours works with local communities to create ‘natural neighbourhoods’. Our aim is for everyone, wherever they live, learn, work and play, to be able to experience the sights, scents and sounds of nature on a daily basis. The UK is highly nature-deprived, particularly in cities, which adversely affects physical and mental health. Wildlife needs the right mix of habitats in order to eat, drink, breed and safely shelter from predators or harsh weather conditions. Different species need different types of habitat, but all species need networks of habitat so they can move around in search of food and water or to find mates. Natural Neighbours brings people together to create ‘habitat hotspots’ at shared sites like schools grounds and community gardens. Together, we co-create designs for how the area can be improved for people as well as wildlife. Then we leverage funding and local people power to transform the space. In the process friendships are born and people are inspired to become nature-nurturers in their outdoor spaces at home and work, guided by our app to extend the network of habitats out across the city.