National Parks promote diversity
18 April 2002
The pioneering Mosaic Project starts a programme of visits by ethnic minority groups to National Parks this weekend. It kicks off with a group from Birmingham who will be kayaking and climbing in the Peak District National Park as guests of the Youth Hostels Association.
This groundbreaking project aims to build links between ethnic minorities and the National Parks of England and Wales.
The Council for National Parks (CNP) (1) and the Black Environment Network (BEN) (1) are project partners, providing their in-depth knowledge about National Parks and the cultural dimension of ethnic communities.
BEN Director, Judy Ling Wong OBE, said: "Ethnic minorities are one of many social groups which for various reasons do not have access to National Parks, which have so much to offer to everyone. Black Environment Network is proud to be working with the National Parks to spearhead a substantial movement to open up these wonderful and inspiring places to everyone".
CNP Director Vicki Elcoate said: "National Parks are there for all to enjoy – indeed their protection depends on the support and involvement of everyone in society. The links between urban and rural areas need to be strengthened and understanding on both sides improved – this project aims to help do that".
Although countryside visits are a recreation enjoyed by millions, they are not equally accessible to all communities in Britain, especially those living in cities. Mosaic is working with seven National Parks (2) to provide more opportunities for ethnic minorities to access the parks so that they can engage more fully in the understanding and enjoyment of their special qualities. The project aims to help identify and remove cultural, physical and mental barriers to visiting national parks as many ethnic communities do not have established links with countryside at all and have specific needs and interests which are not presently accommodated. Many simply do not know what is on offer and may also perceive they are unwelcome. Over the 3 years for which this project has been funded (3), it will develop a model for National Parks to gain awareness and skills to work effectively with ethnic groups and, to enable ethnic groups to enjoy National Parks.
During the summer the project will work with up to 50 ethnic groups invited to take part in visits and programmes of activities. These visits will provide experience of the natural environment to the groups and the National Park Authorities will be supported to gain the relevant skills and awareness to create programmes of activities, which reflect the needs and aspirations of these groups.
The Mosaic project will offer activities not normally available to the ethnic groups: a stroll along the river, an energetic mountain hike, a leisurely picnic or a rock climb.
"It is important that these opportunities are made available to all, particularly to disadvantaged groups. Many people from ethnic groups are unaware of the facilities and activities that exist in National Parks, and many do not know what to expect. This project aims to introduce them to these inspirational landscapes so that they will want to come time and time again" Jessica Nar, Project Officer.
Over the next two years the project will be targeting ethnic groups who have not had any access to the countryside, and will be working with key organizations in the National Parks to encourage this. Ethnic groups engaged in visits this year will take part in workshops and assist National Park Authorities in developing information and interpretation materials aimed at ethnic communities. Park rangers and wardens will introduce them to how they may become involved in the care and protection of the environment. They will also be supported to develop programmes of activities for the coming year and to find sources of funding for future activities.
The Mosaic Project will also work on the infrastructure for ethnic communities to be involved in issues relating to the countryside. It will encourage statutory and voluntary sector organizations concerned with the countryside to request ethnic minority interests on committees, advisory groups, or other decision-making structures (4) .
Notes to editors
1 The Council for National Parks is the national charity that works to protect and enhance the National Parks of England and Wales, and areas that merit National Park status, and promote understanding and quiet enjoyment of them for the benefit of all. The Black Environment Network (BEN) is a UK wide organisation established to promote full participation by ethnic communities in the preservation, protection, and development of the environment.
2 Target National Parks this year (2001) include North York Moors, Yorkshire Dales, Northumberland, Peak District, Brecon Beacons, Broads, and Exmoor – these were decided upon due to the diversity of local community groups and enthusiasm and commitment.
3 The project has been mainly funded by the Heritage Lottery fund, which provides financial support for the protection and enhancement of our heritage, of local regional and national importance for the benefit of communities throughout the UK, the Countryside Agency and the Baring Foundation.
4 Project partners include the National Park Authorities, the Youth Hostels Association and the Field Studies Council – all have pledged resources towards the project, inspired by the exciting prospect of being involved in forging ways of working that embrace diversity
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