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Outdoors for All? Conference
To find out about the Diversity Action Plan Consultation Launch that took place on 23 May 2006 Click here
Recreation

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Outdoors for All? An Action Plan to increase the number of people from under-represented groups who access the natural environment

© Copyright, Tina Stallard
The ten-year action plan will provide an important framework for delivering equality across policy portfolios in both rural and urban communities with key targets set for encouraging people with disabilities, people from black and minority ethnic communities, young people and people from inner cities to participate more in outdoor recreation.


In December 2005, The Countryside Agency delivered a recommended Outline Diversity Action Plan (424kb word) (424kb word) to Defra.  This was drafted in close consultation with key stakeholders at events including:

  • 5 regional roadshows.
  • Workshops for organisations representing: disabled people, black and ethnic minority communities and young people.
  • Action Plan Forum meetings (a group of stakeholders invited to contribute to the development of the plan).       

Following this, the Diversity Review team produced 'Outdoors for All?' the Draft Diversity Action Plan.  The national consultation on the Action Plan was launched by the Minister for Biodiversity, Landscape and Rural Affairs, Barry Gardiner MP at a conference on 23 May 2006.  The consultation ended on 30 September 2006 and, as a result, Natural England has worked in partnership with Defra and key stakeholders to finalise 'Outdoors for All?'.

On 3 March 2008, Defra's 'Outdoors for All?' was successfully launched by Jonathan Shaw, Under-Secretary of State for Landscape and Biodiversity.  Natural England hosted this inspiring event at Kent County Council's Shorne Woods Country Park.

In his speech, the Minister outlined Defra's aspiration to see an increase in people, from all backgrounds enjoying the natural environment.  He said, 

"I'd like to see more people from under represented groups using the natural environment.  People from minority ethnic groups, young people, inner city residents, and the dissabled.  It's important everyone has the opportunity to get colse to nature.  To make the most of the natural world.  It's good for our health and our general wellbeing".

'Outdoors for All?' and all consultation documents are available in a range of accessible formats from  Defra's website.