Why does access to nature matter?

Across the UK, research shows that disabled people and people with mental health conditions are less likely than non-disabled people to access nature-based spaces due to a range of barriers.

Since 2022, Barnwood Trust has been collaborating with people and organisations across Gloucestershire to better understand these barriers and explore what can be done to remove them.

Through our learning programme, a conference and a dedicated network of nature organisations, we’ve seen real momentum building. People working in the sector are coming together, sharing challenges and working collaboratively to make nature more accessible.

Now, we want to share this learning more widely and welcome others into this work. We don’t claim to have all the answers, but this hub has been developed to spark ideas, exchange knowledge and help you begin your own accessibility journey.

At this stop, you’ll find research highlighting common barriers people face, as well as powerful stories from disabled people and people with mental health conditions about the value, connection and belonging that nature brings to their lives. You can also watch our Access to Nature film, which documents the collective progress of this growing movement so far.