Entrants will need to submit a plan to engage people with a particular green space and the nature found within it. This could be at their school or college, a local nature reserve, a community space or private land with public access.

They may propose a change to the physical space such as installing a trail or planting trees, the creation of digital media, printed materials, activities, events or workshops or an exhibition or performance focused upon that green space. The panel are looking for creative but achievable ideas which will make a real difference to people and wildlife.

Winners will receive up to £10,000 to realise their idea plus mentoring and support each week from staff at Herefordshire Wildlife Trust to help them realise their idea.

There are two age categories, 16 to 18 and 18 to 25 and applicants can enter alone or with a group of friends and will have one year to complete their project, ending with a project report and presentation.

Edward Bulmer, one of the trustees of The Howard Bulmer Charitable Trust, says:
 

“Our great-uncle Howard supported the development of the young all his life, so this Award in his name is aimed to encourage what he most cared about – nature, young people and his beloved county of Herefordshire.”

Julia Morton, Youth and Wellbeing Manager at Herefordshire Wildlife Trust says:

“I am very much looking forward to working and learning with young people, supporting them to realise their projects and seeing the response from their peers and the wider community.”

The new award scheme is just one of a series of new initiatives being trialled by Herefordshire Wildlife Trust to offer young people more opportunities to gain practical experience in conservation and learn more about wildlife as well as to boost their wellbeing through connecting with nature.

Further information on the award and how to apply can be found at https://www.herefordshirewt.org/howard-bulmer-young-nature-champion-award