Nurtured by Nature Grantmaking Programme

Context

Research continues to demonstrate the value of nature in improving health and wellbeing outcomes for people of all ages. Nature based interventions (NBI’s) can facilitate behavioural change through a structured promotion of nature based experiences and in doing so promote improved physical, mental and social health and wellbeing.

The evidence suggests that people who participate in community based activities to engage with their natural environment are reaping benefits for:-

• physical health, such as better sleep and motor functioning, along with a reduced prevalence of high blood pressure.
• mental health including reduced rates of depression, stress and agitation.
• social wellbeing as evidenced by reductions in social isolation and anxiety along with increased feelings of social connectedness

A recent study of 20,000 people, conducted by University of Exeter, found that people who spent two hours a week in green spaces — local parks or other natural environments, either all at once or spaced over several visits — were substantially more likely to report good health and psychological well-being than those who don’t. Critically, these effects were robust, cutting across different ages, occupations, ethnic groups, social class, and people with chronic illnesses and disabilities.

It follows, that nature-based interventions which lead to increased nature connectedness also lead to increases in pro-environmental and pro-conservation behaviours, which are vital in addressing the climate and environmental crisis.

About Us

LFT Charitable Trust is a Belfast based family foundation offering small grants and support.

Our priority is to fund partner organisations which make a lasting difference to people’s lives; focus on reducing isolation, inequality and stigma; and inspire and empower individuals to realise their potential and share in the life of the whole community.

Objective of the Nurtured by Nature Grantmaking Programme

The aim of this LFT Grant making Programme is to promote and harness the well-established links between the environment and wellbeing and to support organisations to increase community engagement and connectivity with nature for mutual benefit.

Initiatives proposed must be able to demonstrate how their proposed project will advance the health & wellbeing of participants and how this impact will be measured.

Initiatives that may be supported include

• educational interventions such as citizen science projects and nature based education
• initiatives that prompt attitudinal or behavioural change in how local communities engage with their local environment
• community led approaches to reduce waste, promote re-use and encourage recycling within local neighbourhoods
• projects that enhance the local natural and built environment leading to increased community pride and a sense of belonging

LFT believe intergenerational activities provide a unique opportunity to enhance learning across all age groups and improve connectedness within communities. For this reason, LFT will prioritise initiatives that incorporate the involvement of different generations.

Application Process

Applications are welcomed from dynamic organisations with relevant experience in mobilising communities and delivering projects that advance the health and wellbeing of diverse groups.

To apply, applicants should download an application form here.

As with all funders, it is likely that demand will exceed available funds and so this will be a competitive process. Criteria used to assess applications will include:

• Previous relevant experience. 
• Project objectives
• Number of beneficiaries anticipated
• Outcomes expected and how the activities proposed will produce these outcomes
• Approach to evaluation

Applications for grants of up to £7,000 are invited.

The deadline for receipt of applications is 12 noon Monday 16^th September 2024.

Applications should be made by email to grants@lftcharitabletrust.com

Eligibility

• Only applications from registered charities will be considered.
• Only activity taking place in Northern Ireland will be considered.
• Only expenditure incurred for the purposes of the project and that can be directly attributed to the expected outputs/outcomes will be eligible.
• Financial commitments are envisaged from 1^st November 2024 with a requirement to commence project delivery within three months of receipt of a letter of offer.

Reporting & Evaluation

LFT welcome the opportunity to visit the project during the delivery period and will seek an impact report from funded projects on completion of the project.

Enquiries at any stage of the application process are welcomed by the Secretariat. Grantmaking decisions are made by LFT Board of Trustees.