Today, George the Poet releases a new poem written for Nextdoor Nature – a ground-breaking community rewilding scheme which will be a natural legacy for the Queen’s Jubilee.

Funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and delivered by The Wildlife Trusts across the UK, Nextdoor Nature will support around 200 new groups with 50 community organisers to reintroduce nature into local areas deprived of natural places to enjoy.

The poem – The Natural World – highlights how people feel brighter and more at ease when they can tune into nature. It is performed and filmed on location across Manchester’s wilder quarters and it urges people to “celebrate nature in our everyday lives.”

Evidence shows that people are increasingly disconnected from nature, with profound consequences for health and it also means they are less likely to protect their natural heritage.

The poem explores George the Poet’s sense of being part of nature:

“…like the birds and bees.
Like the ferns, the seeds, the dirt, the trees.”

It ends:

“Let’s celebrate nature in our day to day,
At home, at work, in how we talk, how we think.
It starts with recognising we’re part of it all.
Nature’s reaching out. Let’s answer the call.”

Dr Simon Thurley CBE, Chair of The National Lottery Heritage Fund, says:
“Encouraging people to get involved in nature, is not only critical for the wellbeing of our planet, it is critical for the wellbeing of our communities. A community-created green oasis in areas where there are none will not only have a transformative effect on the lives of those involved, it will bring joy and sense of pride to many. Thanks to funding raised by players of The National Lottery, we are delighted to work in partnership with The Wildlife Trusts on Nextdoor Nature to create a wonderful natural legacy for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.”

Nikki Williams, Director of Campaigning and Communities at The Wildlife Trusts, says:
“Good things happen when people are passionate about where they live. Community wildlife champions can and do achieve the extraordinary – and Nextdoor Nature is all about local people doing small things that, when combined, will make a huge difference to tackling the nature, health and climate crises.

“Over the last two years, nature has shown us that it has a magical way of helping us feel freer, healthier and more positive in ourselves – and nature itself is stronger when people feel a part of it and can help it thrive. Our films – alongside George the Poet’s heart-warming poem – have brought our ground-breaking programme to life. Nextdoor Nature is launched – let the work begin!”