Early autumn saw a significant first, with the staging of a brand new face-to-face gathering specifically aimed at people working to break down barriers to the outdoors.
The Outdoor Connection 2022 took place at YHA London Lee Valley on 23rd and 24th September, hosted by Natural England, YHA and non-profit community network All The Elements, who summed things up perfectly by describing the event as “an opportunity for change-makers to come together, share ideas, develop skills and get inspired for what’s next.”
Running over a day and a half, the event drew almost 100 delegates from 49 different groups. It included a number of sessions run by expert facilitators but also gave opportunity for attendees to connect to — and learn from — each other. Offering resources, skills and funding, it empowered those present to continue their work, while helping larger organisations to keep delivering on their goal to create a more inclusive outdoors.
“It was an event where all were working together towards a common cause,” explains YHA Executive Director of Strategy, Engagement and Commercial Anita Kerwin-Nye.
“It built on the National Lottery Community Fund Outside Voices project, as well as wider work on addressing inequalities in access to green and blue spaces,” she continues. “It also responded to an ongoing failure to reflect more diverse expertise in the governance of nature, outdoor learning charities and public bodies.”
The two days caused Anita to reflect on other aspects, too. “The attendees ensured the core values of equity and access really shone through. Many were long-term YHA members and users, so they gave vital insight into what stops people from feeling included in our shared outdoors.”
And perhaps most tellingly of all, she was struck by the benefit of coming together with like-minded people, all passionate for change. “Allies matter,” she concludes. “And we are all allies.”
The Outdoor Connection 2023 is already being planned. Meanwhile, the work and purpose of the event will continue year-round through Outdoor Citizens.
