Five ways we’re connecting inland communities with the sea
2 minute read
You don’t have to live by the coast to be connected to the ocean.
From the rivers that flow through our towns and cities to the litter dropped on our streets, our everyday actions can have an impact on the sea. Yet for many people living inland, opportunities to experience and learn about the ocean can be limited.
That’s where the One Ocean Roadshow comes in. Over the past year, the project has brought ocean learning, hands-on events and coastal activities to communities across northern England, helping people of all ages discover the wonder of the sea and understand how they can help protect it.
The project would not be possible without the support of The Naturesave Trust, which is funded by the activities of NatureSave Insurance, an award-winning broker with over 30 years' experience in providing ethical and sustainable personal and commercial insurance.
Here are five ways our One Ocean Roadshow is helping communities build their connection with the ocean.
1. Taking the classroom to the coast
Image credit: John Westgarth
During a trip from Leeds to Scarborough for a Marine Activity Day, some children touched sand and used binoculars for the first time. They explored shells and shark egg cases, learned about marine litter and were even lucky enough to spot dolphins!
By helping to cover transport and activity costs, the project is removing barriers and creating opportunities for more young people to experience our seas first hand.
After one trip, the leader for a group of young boys from Girlington’s mosque to Filey Bay said:
This was the first outdoors in nature trip we have done for the mosque group. So, it was a really new experience. They had a lot to take in; they were even a bit nervous and lacked confidence when we arrived. Boys this age are normally on their phones all day and not used to doing things like this, being in a new place. It was amazing we could spend that time outside, together, playing and doing something different.
2. Showing how inland litter can reach the ocean
Image credit: Lorna Donaghy
So far, schools and community groups involved in the One Ocean Roadshow have recorded more than 1,800 items during inland litter surveys - highlighting that protecting the ocean can start on our own streets.
3. Making ocean learning more accessible
Lorna Donaghy, our One Ocean Roadshow Officer said, “You can’t protect what you don’t know. Everyone should have the opportunity to learn about and connect with the ocean, regardless of where they live. Through funding that the NatureSave Trust have provided, we’ve delivered the One Ocean Roadshow to thousands of people, from Manchester, Leeds, Bradford and Liverpool who otherwise, would not likely had the opportunity to connect on a deeper level with the sea.”
Image credit: Lorna Donaghy
For many participants on a trip to Filey with Positive Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers, it was their first time visiting a UK beach. One participant shared their reflection on the coach back to Leeds:
I really enjoyed the trip because I’m going through a really hard time and being part of this trip gave me so much comfort and hope. With lots of activities and people around me, it made me feel better, relaxed and reminded me that I’m not alone. It was very important for me because it gave me strength, new memories and a chance to connect with others in a positive way. I’m very grateful and I really believe trips like this can change lives for the better.
4. Connecting people with the ocean through creativity and wellbeing
Image credit: Lorna Donaghy
Why not try our blue mindfulness exercises wherever you are today?
5. Turning ocean learning into action
Image credit: Lorna Donaghy
Over the past year, the One Ocean Roadshow has reached more than 4,300 people through 102 sessions across 11 council areas. More than three-quarters of these sessions were delivered to participants where many come from areas ranked in the top 30% of deprivation.
The ocean connects us all, whether we live five minutes or fifty miles away. By bringing ocean learning directly to communities, the One Ocean Roadshow is helping more people discover their connection to it and feel inspired to protect our sea for the future.
