A number of leading zoo organisations have signed a letter to UK Prime Minister Sir Kier Starmer, calling for improved access to natural sites and historical destinations.
The letter starts: “We, the undersigned, are writing in response to your speech on the role of civil society last week. We are delighted you have vowed a closer working relationship between charities and your Government. We agree that our charities contain much of the expertise, sites and the tools that can help shape, inform and then deliver policy that pushes Britain forward.”
Research from Action for Children shows that one in 12 families in the UK has never been on a family holiday. Many more people are rarely going on domestic days out, which is partly due to barriers, including rising costs. The coalition of charities is working to address these challenges.
The letter says the groups want to be in a position so “every child can make a memory and have those experiences that can change a life. So every child can stop dreading the question “So what did you do over the holidays?”
The letter is signed by BIAZA CEO Dr Jo Judge as well as Sarah Fowler (WWT chief executive), Lizzie Glithero-West ( The Heritage Alliance cheief executive), David Field (RZSS CEO), Laura Read (Marwell Wildlife CEO), Wayne Norrie OBE (Greenwood Academies Trust CEO), Rob Parkinson (Family Holiday Charity CEO) and Nicola Bridge (Head of ocean advocacy and engagement, Ocean Conservation Trust).
A meeting of minds
On 17 September, a meeting will welcome leaders from across the charitable sector for a ‘day of discussion and action’ at WWT London Wetland Centre. Titled 11 million postcards, to reflect the number of school-aged children in the United Kingdom. Zoos, aquariums, museums, heritage and natural site organisations will unite with campaigners to develop steps for improving access to recreation, nature and heritage. Sir Kier Starmer has been invited to join the meeting by the co-signers.
Attendees will hear how discount schemes for those receiving Universal Credit are bringing people closer to the natural world, how outdoor classes are inspiring the ‘changemakers’ of tomorrow, and what steps civil society can take to tackle the highlighted challenges.
Earlier this month, The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, submitted a planning application to undertake a landmark renovation of its iconic Palm House and Waterlily House in London, UK.
Photo: Portrait of Sir Kier Starmer, courtesy of UK Parliament
