This autumn we launched our exciting ‘Let’s Rewild’ project, made possible by Bradford Council’s Climate Action Fund. Let’s Rewild is an initiative aiming to increase biodiversity and nature, whilst also contributing to improve the mental health of residents of one urban street, as part of our ongoing All for Play programme in Keighley.

The Lets Rewild initiative is currently in its 2^nd month. Initially we asked residents about their relationship with nature in their garden and the barriers they face in improving this relationship, which gave us a starting point for planning 6 months of activity. The Get Out More team have helped residents clear gardens, ready for the installation of birdhouses and bug hotels. Soon, we will also be planting wildflowers, shrubs, and trees to further encourage wildlife to visit the areas.

Rewilding is a hot topic at the minute in relation to climate change and biodiversity. Rewilding on the larger scale can lessen the effects of climate change through regenerating peatlands that store carbon dioxide, or by replanting shrubbery and trees which can encourage wildlife, decrease the severity of flooding, and remove carbon dioxide.  On the smaller scale, we can rewild our gardens to connect with nature on our doorstep and give wildlife new homes.  There is a powerful link between nature and happiness and general satisfaction in life, and being connected and with and noticing nature has a significant impact on peoples wellbeing.  We will be measuring this at the end of the initiative and will keep you posted on this topic!