Why local?
At times the issues facing us may seem huge and overwhelming.
Supporting nature in the places around us, in whatever ways we can, is not only a good way to feel better, it’s often where we can make the most tangible difference.
And those differences can add up to big impacts for nature and community.
Local actions
There are so many things you can do to help nature.
You don’t have to go far from home, even if you live in a big town or city.
There are opportunities for action in your garden, your neighbourhood and your local community’s open spaces. Even on your windowsill.
Taking action together
All over Sussex, people are coming together to protect and restore nature.
Allotment Sunflower 2025 © Ros MossNature-friendly spaces
Gardening for wildlife
Gardens, allotments and streets can be vital habitats for nature, and great places to enjoy encounters with wildlife.
There are countless ways to attract wildlife to your space, whether that’s a doorstep or a rambling plot. The Wildlife Trusts’ Wildlife Gardening hub is the place to go for inspiration, tricky questions and step-by-step advice.
Training and support
Become a Wilder Community Champion
Could you be champion for nature in your community? Are you already getting organised, and looking for some training and support?
Sign up with Wilder Community Champions scheme and learn how to manage and monitor local spaces for nature or how to campaign to protect your local wild spaces.
Frog © Mark Hamblin/2020VISIONCommunity action
Find a community group
There are around 100 active local community groups working for nature across East and West Sussex. From conservation teams to climate action networks, find one near you and get involved.
Explore the interactive map and follow the links for more information about each group.
Are you involved with a group that should be on this map?
Wider nature recovery
Revitalise your land or farm with nature
From smallholdings and farms to large estates, woodlands or business premises, we can help you create nature-rich, more resilient habitats and landscapes.
Our expertise spans nature friendly farming, building Nature Recovery Networks, increasing climate resilience, species recovery, and more.
Brown Hare @ Dave Kilbey
Collared Dove in flight over houses (composite image) © Roger WilmshurstPlanning and development
Campaign against harmful development
If you’re worried about the impact a planned development will have on local wildlife, we encourage you to speak up for nature.
You can get support by joining our Wilder Community Campaigner training programme, and also by joining the Planning Networks for Nature community site.
Give your time
Volunteer with us
Hundreds of people in Sussex, of all ages, volunteer with us. It’s a brilliant way to make a difference, pick up new skills, make contacts and get to know the work we do. Some of our volunteers go on to become members of staff or trustees.
Volunteers and staff at Malling Down © Roz Bassford