Young people and nature
Helping young people take action for wildlife
We’re passionate about helping young people connect with nature, take action for wildlife and the environment, and giving them a platform to make their voice heard. We know that young people that are connected to nature are happier and healthier, mentally and physically. We also know that young people are the ones inheriting this damaged world and that we need to support them to develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence to tackle the dual climate and ecological emergencies.
Would you like to make a positive difference to you, your local environment, and community?
Our range of programmes and opportunities could be just what you’re looking for.
Ways you can get involved
Make your voice heard! Join our Youth Group
Worried about climate change? Passionate about outdoor learning? Want to volunteer on our nature reserves? Join our Youth Group and do all of these things. Connect with other like-minded passionate young people and make a noise about the issues that matter to you. This is an exciting opportunity to develop your skills and confidence.
Our Youth Group is open to young people aged 14 – 25 and meets on a Saturday morning once a month at our Bog Meadows Nature Reserve. Youth Group members get to take part in campaigns and practical action for wildlife. Members are also invited to represent Ulster Wildlife at events and activities and provide the organisation with the views of young people on environmental issues.
To find out more contact Sheila Lyons (Volunteer and Training Coordinator) by email sheila.lyons@ulsterwildlife.org or mobile 07703 673217
Binevenagh Residential - perfect for the Duke of Edinburgh’s and Gaisce Awards schemes
Every summer, we run a week-long residential for young people aged 16 – 25 in partnership with Magilligan Field Centre and the Binevenagh Landscape Partnership scheme. Supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the week involves a mixture of practical conservation work, habitat surveys and conservation-related education sessions as well as outdoor pursuits, free time and fun evening activities.
The week is especially valuable for young people wanting to complete the residential element of Award schemes such as the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and Gaisce Award.
To find out more, contact Sheila Lyons (Volunteer and Training Coordinator) by email sheila.lyons@ulsterwildlife.org or mobile 07703 673217
Sustainable Youth - Training and resources for Youth Workers
We are delighted to have worked with the Education Authority’s Youth Service to deliver a brand new ‘Youth Work for the Environment and Sustainability' curriculum model called Sustainable Youth. We piloted the programme in 2021/2022 and there is now a range of practical resources and training available to support delivery throughout Northern Ireland.
To find out more contact Alexey Janes (Community Engagement Manager) by email at Alexey.Janes@ulsterwildlife.org or mobile 07816 065919
