Join the Climate and Nature Friendly Communities Network

Community groups across the country are being invited to join our Climate and Nature Friendly Communities Network. 

The network, currently made up of 248 groups across the country, provides community gardening groups with free support, resources and national recognition no matter what stage of their growing journey they’re at, whether they’re just starting out or have been active for years. 

The Beautiful Scotland and It’s Your Neighbourhood initiatives are included as part of our support to the network, and free to take part in. Groups must focus on three pillars of gardening/horticultural achievement, environmental responsibility and community participation. 

There are also options for mentor support, guidance, opportunities to attend networking events and celebrations and apply for awards. 

Juliette Camburn, our Senior Officer, Community Initiatives, said: “The Climate and Nature Friendly Communities Network is made up of hundreds of amazing groups and people who work tirelessly to make a positive difference to their community. 

“This year, as we celebrate 60 years of the Beautiful Scotland initiative, we’d love to have more than 300 groups in our network and celebrate the community gardening taking place in as many areas of our country as possible. We know there are millions of adults who are interested in joining community gardening initiatives, so, if you’re one of them, this is the network for you. 

“Regardless of your expertise and whether you’re looking to get started or want to share decades of experience, we need you in our network, sharing the same values and goals as we do, including protecting and enhancing biodiversity, reducing the negative impacts of climate change and making where you live more beautiful and more climate and nature friendly. 

“Come and join our ever-growing network and don’t look back!” 

We're hosting a free online open session on Tuesday 24 February from 7-8pm for groups and individuals to find out more, meet other groups and our volunteers. 

Email cnfcn@keepscotlandbeautiful.org to book a place. 

The Beautiful Scotland and It’s Your Neighbourhood initiatives are both affiliated with the Royal Horticultural Society’s (RHS) UK-wide Britain in Bloom campaign. 

We are also looking for new It’s Your Neighbourhood assessors and mentors to join the volunteer family so find out more about how you could volunteer your skills. 

It’s Your Neighbourhood is supported by the Royal Horticultural Society.