Middlesbrough is a town of significant disadvantage, being ranked 5th in England’s Index of Multiple Deprivation 2019.  Covid-19 has impacted further owing to: existing levels of disadvantage; many people being in low paid, insecure jobs that cannot be undertaken from home and where social distancing cannot take place; and lower than national average rates of educational attainment impacted further by school closures during lockdown.  A densely populated area, with 140,000 people in approximately six by four miles, significant pressure has been placed on our extensive natural spaces.  The increased uncertainty and risks from Covid-19 have also placed additional strain on community cohesion.

However, the current time also provides unique opportunities in Middlesbrough to increase understanding of our extensive network of natural green spaces.  This understanding can be accompanied by practical activity and skills development that will: enhance existing sites and make them more resilient to pressures; build skills amongst participants that lead to employment, volunteering, training and apprenticeships; improve access to natural spaces and raise their profile; and increase cohesion in our diverse communities