All across Suffolk there are people who are already enjoying making a difference for wildlife in their local patch.  Village greens, pockets parks, churchyards, wildlife ponds, school grounds, green lanes, local nature reserves, recreation grounds – the list goes on -  have been created, restored, improved, used and celebrated by the local community.

Our local green spaces are valuable places for both people and wildlife.  With the right management they can be a haven for a whole host of species.  But these areas are important for people too and the physical and mental benefits of time spent connecting with nature are becoming increasingly clear.  Our green spaces can be the first introduction young children have to wildlife, somewhere to re-discover the wonders of nature or simply a place in which to escape the hassles of everyday life. 

Suffolk Wildlife Trust has been working with parishes across the county on community wildlife projects to take a closer look at their local wildlife and take action to improve it.  So far, we have been involved with more than 250 projects which have resulted in around 1000 hectares of community owned land being managed for both the enjoyment of local people and for the benefit of wildlife.  But there is still much more we can do……

What is Breathing Places?
In 1829 JC Loudon had a wonderful idea for London.  He drew up a plan to enable everybody to have a green space no more than a quarter of a mile from their home.  He called these green places ‘breathing spaces’. 

Now, inspired by millions of people who watch British wildlife programmes, the BBC has teamed up with key wildlife organisations, including The Wildlife Trusts, to create thousands of breathing places right across the UK. 

Lots of help and advice is available, including some funding from the Big Lottery Fund – so don’t let lack of funds stop you from following up any ideas you have!

Want to get involved?
You may have already heard Bill Oddie and his team on Springwatch or Autumnwatch talking about some of the Breathing Places projects that are happening around the country – or perhaps you have seen BBC Breathing Places website listing numerous events happening around the county, giving people the opportunity to get involved with a local project.

Feeling inspired?
Why not give Tracey Housley a call at Suffolk Wildlife Trust on 01473 890089 or email info@suffolkwildlifetrust.org to discuss your ideas or to find out whether there are any projects already happening in your area?  Small actions can lead to big changes and no matter how much time or experience you have, you can help to create a breathing place near where you live.