Did you know that the UK is home to a rare and ancient ecosystem – Atlantic temperate rainforests? Often called “Celtic rainforests,” these lush, moss-draped woodlands once covered up to 20% of the British Isles but now occupy less than 1% of their original extent. Found mainly in the damp, western regions of Cornwall, Wales, and Scotland, these rainforests host unique biodiversity, including rare lichens, ferns, and fungi, and play a critical role in regulating our climate by sequestering carbon.
The Thousand Year Trust is dedicated to restoring and expanding these forests, beginning with its site at Cabilla in Cornwall. The charity supports a broader movement to significantly increase rainforest coverage across the UK and aims to set a global example for sustainable restoration.
This initiative isn’t just about restoring nature – it’s about reconnecting people to their heritage and laying the foundation for a healthier planet and society for generations to come.
Collaborating with six universities, the Trust works to promote community well-being and nature-based therapies, demonstrating the connection between human health and ecological restoration.
With funding from the John Good Group, the Thousand Year Trust will strengthen its volunteer program and cover essential operational costs. Specifically, they plan to hire a Volunteer Manager to create local, living-wage employment and expand community engagement. Additional funds will support the development of an educational guidebook on rainforest restoration for landowners and help establish safe, effective volunteer systems. They also plan to enhance outreach through conferences and workshops, sharing their mission and inspiring others to join the movement.
We’re excited that saving Britain’s temperate rainforests has resonated with your team. The opportunity to collaborate with the John Good Group, known for its commitment to sustainability and community support, is incredibly inspiring and reinforces the significance of our mission.
Our movement aims to reconnect people with a unique ecosystem, helping combat climate change and alleviate mental health pressures. This grant will not only support our work but also raise awareness of temperate rainforests and help secure a lasting legacy for future generations.
I had a fascinating meeting with Bianca Richardson from the Thousand Year Trust, which was founded by Merlin Hanbury-Tenison. The charity focuses on restoring the UK’s temperate rainforests and partnering with universities for research, including collaborations on nature-based therapies. The Trust has seen success in fundraising, securing a grant from the Garfield Weston Foundation. They aim to expand the Cabilla site and promote sustainable farming, highlighting both environmental and health benefits. Bianca’s passion for their mission was inspiring, emphasising the wide-ranging positive impact on people and the planet.
Latest Project Updates
December 2024
Granted £3,500
After employees at the John Good Group voted for their favourite causes, Thousand Year Trust received a grant of £3,500.
December 2024
Grants for Good Finalist
Thousand Year Trust has become one of the top five finalists in the latest Grants for Good round, and will receive a grant between £2000 and £5000 after employees at the John Good Group have voted on their favourite causes.