(Image: YDMT)
A PARTNERSHIP is giving city residents the chance to explore the great outdoors through visits to the Yorkshire Dales.
Leeds Building Society (LBS) has teamed up with Clapham-based Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust (YDMT) to help inner-city communities in Leeds access nature through the Green Futures Open Pathway scheme.
The programme offers structured three-day visits to the Yorkshire Dales National Park for groups from green space-deprived areas of Leeds and includes activities such as wellbeing walks, nature crafts, and practical sessions in dry-stone walling and woodland management.
Tom Wrigglesworth, senior corporate and public affairs manager at Leeds Building Society, said: "It’s great to partner with YDMT on the Green Futures Open Pathway.
"At Leeds Building Society we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive in a place they can call home.
"That means supporting people’s wellbeing and helping to build stronger communities.
"By combining experiences in nature with volunteering opportunities and tailored support, this partnership will help people to build confidence and develop new skills.
"We’re proud to support this holistic programme and looking forward to seeing the lasting impact and difference it will make to people across the city."
Two participants from each group will follow an extended programme, leading to an accredited outdoor leadership qualification to help them support others in accessing green spaces independently.
The partnership aims to improve wellbeing, encourage community connection, and develop practical skills among participants.
Mr Wrigglesworth said the programme is about more than just time in the countryside.
He said: "By combining experiences in nature with volunteering opportunities and tailored support, this partnership will help people to build confidence and develop new skills.
"We’re proud to support this holistic programme and looking forward to seeing the lasting impact and difference it will make to people across the city."
In 2024, the partnership was recognised as the ‘Best Environmental Impact Partnership of the year’ at the Third Sector Charity Business Awards for its blend of environmental action and community engagement.
Richard Hore, corporate fundraising manager at YDMT, said: "YDMT’s award-winning outreach work has already enabled more than 5,000 young people and 10,000 adults access and enjoy the Yorkshire Dales, delivering wellbeing and community-enriching outcomes.
"With Leeds Building Society’s support, the new Green Futures Open Pathway will increase the long-term impact of this work, offering genuine opportunities for personal growth and community development.
"Together, LBS and YDMT are committed to delivering a holistic approach that not only connects people with nature but also strengthens mental health and community cohesion."
The scheme builds on years of outreach work by YDMT, which has already helped thousands experience the Dales.