Impact and case studies
In 2023, Norfolk Rivers Trust, WWF (World Wide Fund for Nature), and Aviva launched the Aviva Access to Nature Fund to help break down barriers for groups struggling to access Norfolk’s rivers and countryside.
Out of 33 applications, 25 groups, schools, and charities were supported, directly benefitting over 862 people across Norfolk.
Explore the case studies below to see the meaningful ways the fund was used and the positive impact it had.
Image credit: Teo Utting.
East Norfolk Scouts
106 Scouts (aged 10-14yrs) from eight groups across East Norfolk took part in seven, 75-minute sessions of minibeasting and pond dipping as part of an annual District weekend camp at Decoy Broad Scout Campsite on the Norfolk Broads.
A Norfolk Wildlife Trust education staff member led the sessions on the first day accompanied by a Scout Leader who subsequently led the sessions on the second day.
All of the equipment used was paid for by the Aviva Access to Nature Fund and is now available for use by all age ranges (4-18) across the East Norfolk District.
“This was a fantastic addition to the suite of activities offered at our District camp. It was great to see the Scouts engaged and focussed on exploring the campsite grounds and I hope to be able to offer this again in successive years.”
— Sue, Assistant District Commissioner (Scouts).
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The event involved a leisurely cruise along the River Bure on four day boats. Participants enjoyed stunning views of the local area while soaking up the sunshine and enjoying the company of fellow guests. Following a trip to Horning on the day boats; they arrived in Wroxham for a two-course lunch at a local pub. Participants then had the chance to wander around Wroxham before the coach ride home.
“Firstly, it was just wonderful to be given the opportunity to do something that would be financially difficult for me, so thank you to the funders and Age UK for this. The planning and communication about the day beforehand was very professional and friendly. I felt welcomed from the first confirmation phone call, and this continued through the whole process. Instructions were always clear, and I felt supported throughout the day. The day itself was just wonderful, and we had an idyllic day for it. Being on the small day boats, gave us an opportunity to be up close to nature. We spotted kingfishers, herons, lots of dragonflies, and even a brief glimpse of an otter!”
— Participant.
Extraordinary Communities
We took a group of children, who we’ve been supporting through our Natural Wonder holiday sessions, to Cley Marshes Visitor Centre. They explored the marshes and also attended the European eel show at the Simon Aspinhall Wildlife Education Centre as part of World Eel Day. During the visit, we also listened to a talk on the European eel and learned about the biodiversity on the marshes.
“Younger children are not getting engaged with nature as much, which I know from participating in research with University of Derby, but the benefits to wellbeing are huge.”
— Carl Brooker, former National Trust ranger.
Friends of Hockering Primary School
Pupils aged 4-10 enjoyed a school trip to Pensthorpe, fully funded by the Aviva Access to Nature Fund.
They learnt about habitats, life cycles, rocks and fossils, birds and even Pensthorpe’s very own dinosaurs! Their learning was enhanced by practical, hands-on activities, such as pond dipping, bird feeding, and exploring nature through indoor and outdoor play. They also experienced their own private tour of the park and its surroundings on the Pensthorpe Explorer.
“I loved being able to play with my friends all day whilst learning. I most enjoyed zooming down the slides, and it was so funny when the teachers came down. Oh, and also I caught a dragonfly when we done pond dipping for the first time.”
— Finlay, aged 8.
The henderson trust
The Henderson Trust used the Access to Nature Fund to take two trips to Wroxham, for a two hour boat trip on the Queen of the Broads, a trip to Felbrigg Hall, and a steam train trip to Sheringham.
“I want to thank you for organising such a wonderful outing to the Broads. I enjoyed it immensely, especially the time you spent with me on the boat. Thank you, Ta and many more accolades for your company, I’m a bit overwhelmed.”
— Attendee.