In developing our plans for Nature Calling, one thing was central: the recognition that so many people enjoy being outside and connecting with nature, but that it can be a challenge to do so. Transport, knowing where to go, what to wear and take are all issues that can feel overwhelming.
Nature Calling gives people a structured way to start their journey into nature, and the chance to contribute to something bigger.
Callum Clark, who took part in workshops with Rob St John for the 'Are You Lost?' project in Forest of Bowland National Landscape is an amazing example.
Callum was struggling with social anxiety, and was referred to the Pendle YES hub (the Youth Employment Support Service run by Active Lancashire in partnership with Pendle Borough Council, Positive Action in the Community, and the Department for Work and Pensions). He was able to take part in workshops run by the team there, and then got involved in creating a podcast as part of the 'Are You Lost?' project. His confidence had improved to the extent that he was able to feature on BBC Countryfile talking about his involvement, with an audience of 5.5 million people!
We're so proud of Nature Calling and of all the people who've got involved to make such amazing pieces of artwork.
Callum (seated, holding a mic) recorded the sounds of nature in the Forest of Bowland National Landscape for the Are You Lost? podcast
You can catch up on Callum's appearance on Countryfile here.
You can read more about Callum's experience in articles in the Lancashire Telegraph and Lancashire Evening Post.