Durham Wildlife Trust

Sunderland City Council are working in partnership with Durham Wildlife Trust to deliver Connecting Through Nature a project that aims to connect people with each other, their local greenspaces and with nature.

The Trust brings nature and wildlife expertise to the project, along with experience of working with residents, community groups and partner organisations to inspire them about the natural world, helping people to develop the skills required to care for green areas.

Connecting Through Nature is one of several initiatives led by the Trust in the Sunderland area.

Links with Nature, launched in 2024, has focused on the Coalfields area, getting local people involved in revitalising 13 greenspaces. Links with Nature Durham 

City of Nature is a new, three-year community project helping people across Sunderland connect with nature, improve wellbeing and take action for the environment. City of Nature Sunderland

Find out more about Durham Wildlife Trust, their role in Connecting Through Nature and other exciting projects happening in Sunderland.

Ways to get involved

Visit a wild space

Durham Wildlife Trust looks after more than 50 nature reserves, located from the Tees to the Tyne. There are a number situated in the Sunderland area, including Rainton Meadows Nature Reserve. Set within 74 hectares of woodland, wetland and grassland habitats, all of which are linked through an excellent network of accessible pathways and viewing areas, Rainton Meadows has a visitor centre, gift shop and coffee shop, making it the perfect destination, on the edge of an urban environment, to step into the wild.

Explore Durham Wildlife Trust nature reserves 

Volunteer for wildlife

Durham Wildlife Trust has many exciting opportunities for volunteering and is always looking for people who share a passion for wildlife and conservation to join the team. As a volunteer, you can play an integral role in what the Trust does. It is also a wonderful way to socialise, learn new skills and give back to the community.

Find out more on Volunteering