Dorset Wildlife Trust (DWT) nature reserves to remain open and new social media campaign launched to support community during Covid–19.
DWT centres are now closed and staff at DWT have started homeworking where possible. Staff continuing to work from HQ at Brooklands Farm, will be undertaking social distancing. Thesemeasures have been taken to protect the volunteers, staff and friends of DWT following the progression of Covid–19.
Events and volunteering days at the Trust have been put on hold until the end of April. The situation will be regularly monitored,and DWT will update everyone on its website and social media channels.
During this unprecedented time, DWT will seek to supportpeople facing isolation through its new social media and email campaign – #dorsetwildlifewindow, helping people find ways to connect to nature and experience its benefits.
DWT will be encouraging everyone to share photos and videos of what they see out of their windows and will be sending emails out with ideas of how people can connect with nature or helpwildlife during periods of isolation. Whether that’s by building a bug mansion, making a hole in your fence for hedgehogs or putting water out for the birds, every little action helps.
Chief Executive of Dorset Wildlife Trust, Brian Bleese, said: “We are all worried about coronavirus and how it impacts on the lives of loved ones. The safety of our volunteers, members, supporters and staff is our priority and we have taken the decision to postpone activities and close centres until April 30th. We will review this regularly.”
He added: “We know this is a scary time for people. People are worried about their loved ones and many people are facing self-isolation. We want to help and encourage people to get out into nature where they can. While our centres are closed, our nature reserves are open and we would encourage people, where it’s safe and possible to do so following Government guidelines to go outinto nature. There are several reserves where it is possible to socially distance, with open spaces and a host of wildlife to enjoy.
“Even if you can only go into your garden, we would urge people to do it, as nature is proven to help boost mood and combat low morale. We will be doing all we can on our social media and via our emails to help give people ideas for activities they can do, whether they are self-isolating or are at home with their families. We are here to help in this unsettling time, so please join us.”
To join in the #dorsetwildlifewindow campaign, visit DWT’s Facebook, Instagram or Twitter social media accounts. And to sign up to DWT’s email newsletter visit here: https://www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/what-we-do/news-blogs-email-updates/updates-email. To find out more information about nature reserves, visit: https://www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/nature-reserves
