TSF’s Nature Action Hub has been set up to provide a volunteering platform for ecology experts, connecting nature specialists with community groups needing advice on the best action to take for  nature restoration and wildlife in their local areas.

So when a community in Eastbourne needed advice on tree planting, the Nature Action Hub was there to help. The community group didn’t lack ambition. Given the opportunity to create woodland on a plot of land in the South Downs National Park, they took it upon themselves to plant no fewer than 2200 native trees.  Over 200 volunteers of all ages were ready for action.

Ecologist Orlando Campbell who volunteers through the Nature Action Hub advised the Eastbourne group on the best methodology for tree planting, issues to consider pre planting management and post planting maintenance of the site.

Gareth Jones of Eastbourne Treebourne said the assistance was invaluable for the long-term success of the project. “Treebourne is made up of volunteers with a wide variety of skills and a lot of enthusiasm, but no one with a background in arboriculture. There is a lot of differing information available on the internet, so to be able to get direct answers from an expert in their field provided a clarity and confidence. We had a great experience with the Nature Action Hub and Orlando’s help was invaluable. Thank you so much!”

As for Orlando, he was similarly pleased with the outcome. “It was a real pleasure to be able to help this inspiring group of people. What they have achieved is a real example of community in action and goes to show what a difference people can make when they decide to mobilise for nature.”

The volunteering platform is currently operating in Sussex in partnership with the Sussex Wildlife Trust and plans to expand its services to London shortly. For more information, please contact Caroline Croft at the Southwood Foundation at caroline.croft@southwoodfoundation.org