National Parks: New Perspectives

Our National Parks New Perspectives project first launched in 2021 with the aim to give young people from diverse backgrounds the opportunity to influence and connect with decision makers to change the narratives on who National Parks are for and who has a say in their future. We’ve worked with some incredible young people to share their stories and explore themes close to their heart.

This year we were grateful to be awarded funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund to grow the project and connect even more young people with National Parks over the next two years, thank you to National Lottery players. The project consists of many different aspects; a variety of grants for young people to share their stories of National Parks, our Future Leaders Course which provides campaigning and leadership skills to inspire future leaders, as well as recruiting youth ambassadors and providing in person opportunities for young people to engage with and influence decision makers. 

As we celebrate 75 years of National Parks and look to their future, we know it’s vital to inspire the next generation to become the custodians of National Parks for the next 75 years and beyond. The New Perspectives project aims to create a legacy of youth leadership that has a positive and lasting impact on the National Parks in England and Wales.

Just 6% visitors are aged 16-24 and young people are much less likely to live, work or be involved in decision-making in National Parks