The impacts of climate change including climate anxiety are more and more apparent. The UK is one of the most nature depleted countries in the world, with more than 40% of native wildlife species in decline. At the same time, we know many residents are experiencing loneliness and social isolation contributing to poor mental and physical well-being in some communities in Oxfordshire. There are many opportunities to address these challenges creating resilient communities through local connections.

The Climate Coalition organises Great Big Green Week annually, which it dubs, 'the UK’s largest celebration of climate and nature,' and we couldn't agree more. However, the activation at the local level can't happen without support to groups on the ground. Across Oxfordshire last year, activities ranged from hands-on beekeeping exhibitions to therapeutic gardening for those with serious mental health challenges to a school making mini nature reserves in window boxes to weeklong series of talks.