The nation’s forests made more welcoming, inclusive and accessible for thousands as £4m funding announced - Forestry England

Thousands more people will be able to benefit from time in nature, supporting physical and mental wellbeing and helping to reduce pressure on public services, following a new £4 million government investment to improve access to the nation’s forests.

Forestry England says the funding will help more people enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits of spending time outdoors, particularly those who currently face the greatest barriers to accessing green space. This includes people with disabilities, older visitors, families with additional access needs, and those who may not frequently visit the countryside due to perceived or physical barriers.

The investment comes at a time when health experts continue to highlight the importance of preventative approaches to wellbeing, including increasing physical activity, supporting mental health, and reducing loneliness and inactivity.

The nation’s forests are increasingly recognised as part of this wider preventative health infrastructure, offering accessible spaces that support physical and mental health and wellbeing.

The funding builds on the Access for All programme, which has already delivered more than 110 accessibility improvements at over 60 forests since 2022.

These include improved walking, wheeling and cycling routes, accessible seating and rest areas, inclusive play areas, all-terrain mobility scooters, communication boards, and Changing Places toilets, all designed to make it easier for more people to spend time outdoors in ways that work for them.