Wiltshire arboretum launches new membership for young people

The charity Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum has launched a new membership specifically for 18 to 25-year-olds to allow them to access nature and boost their mental health.

The membership is offered at a special rate of £30, compared to the usual £45 for single membership, recognising the financial constraints often faced by this age group.

Westonbirt (Image: Johnny Hathaway) Westonbirt (Image: Johnny Hathaway) Emma Griffiths, CEO, said: "We feel this is a great way to enable younger people to access nature while boosting their mental wellbeing.

"It’s about having more opportunity to venture into the great outdoors and to disconnect from technology and the stresses of modern living.

"But it’s also about doing so in an affordable way, while advocating the work we do so we can ensure the arboretum will continue to flourish and be better able to play its part in tackling global challenges.

"We want as many people as possible to experience the strong connection with trees, and to benefit from its positive impacts on health and wellbeing.”

Westonbirt (Image: Johnny Hathaway) Research indicates spending time in nature has significant benefits for mental and physical health.

It is associated with improved mood, reduced feelings of stress and anger, and increased confidence and self-esteem.

The initiative comes at a time when statistics reveal young people in the UK have higher mental health needs than ever before.

The Mental Health of Children and Young People in England report, published annually by NHS England, found 23.3 per cent of 17 to 19-year-olds had a probable mental disorder in 2023, while in 20 to 25-year-olds it was 21.7 per cent.

Westonbirt (Image: Paul Groom) The same survey revealed 17 to 25-year-olds with a probable mental disorder were three times more likely to not be able to afford to take part in activities such as sports, days out, or socialising with friends, compared with those unlikely to have a mental disorder.

As a result, Westonbirt has re-evaluated its plans, ensuring the tree collection is better managed to support young people’s aspirations and interests in the future.

Members of the Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum can enjoy benefits including free, year-round entry, discounted entry at partner gardens, free seasonal, educational events and activities, and early bird booking for Forest Live concerts and Christmas at Westonbirt, plus free event parking for one car.

Membership can be applied for online or in person at Westonbirt Arboretum.