A Youth Declaration for National Parks

Everyone has the right to discover our amazing National Parks.

But for many of us accessing and enjoying National Parks can be difficult. As young people, we are faced with barriers such as limited public transport and few opportunities to connect with and have our voices heard for wild, nature-rich spaces. National Parks were created for everyone but right now…

• Only 6% of visitors to National Parks in England are under the age of 25
• Children and teenagers grow up less connected to nature than other age groups
• Young people are suffering through a mental health crisis without adequate support
• National Park communities are facing a lack of rural jobs and training opportunities
• There are no consistent ways for young people to speak up and be heard on issues that affect them in National Parks
• Experiences in National Parks can be life changing for young people, but we are excluded from valuable opportunities to connect with them. If National Parks are to survive and thrive, these opportunities must be provided to inspire the next generation to become future custodians of the countryside.

As we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of National Parks in the UK, we’re coming together to create a brighter future— a future where all young people have equal opportunity to discover, feel connected to and enjoy our National Parks.

We want to see: 

1. Public transport getting young people to National Parks easily and affordably
2. A visit to a National Park for every school and college student
3. NHS services connecting young people with the benefits of National Parks
4. High-quality work and training opportunities in all National Parks
5. A stronger voice for young people in how National Parks are run
6. And we are determined to achieve this 

Speak up for the future of National Parks

If you share our vision, why not add your voice to our declaration? 

Together, we’ll be taking direct action – highlighting the issues facing young people, challenging decision-makers to be bold, and sharing our stories about why National Parks are so special. 

Add your voice to Right to Discover declaration