Village Green, funded by the National Lottery Climate Action Fund, is a three-year partnership bringing climate action into everyday community life. Rather than focusing on technical jargon or policy language, the project is all about making climate action accessible, local and relevant.

Ria Hughes, from the Village Green team, explains that the project will work directly with communities through themed events, workshops and hands-on projects.

“We’re working with communities to shape activities that feel welcoming, engaging and rooted in people’s interests. We’ll also be supporting village halls and community buildings to become greener and more carbon friendly.”

Reaching people who may not usually take part in climate conversations is a key focus.

Patrick Hoyle highlights that the project is about reframing big concepts like ‘net zero’ and ‘decarbonisation’ into actions that genuinely matter for local people.

“It’s not about being hard to reach — it’s about being hardly reached. When we translate these big ideas into real benefits, people feel part of the journey.”

Those benefits go far beyond reducing emissions.

Charles Forman emphasises that climate action and community wellbeing are deeply connected.

“If we set up a village hub, it brings people together, tackles isolation and supports health and wellbeing. And it also helps the climate. These small steps really can change the world.”

Liz Watchorn, head of funding at The National Lottery Community Fund, said:

“Village Green makes climate action relevant, achievable and part of everyday life. From greener community buildings to new opportunities for young people, the project shows how local action can help build a more sustainable future for everyone.”

“Thanks to National Lottery players, communities across North Yorkshire will be able to come together through Village Green to take practical steps on climate change.”

Whether it’s improving local green spaces, supporting energy-efficient buildings, or creating opportunities for neighbours to come together, Village Green aims to show that community-led climate action is both achievable and positive.

Over the course of the programme, Village Green aims to work with more than 8,000 people across North Yorkshire. The project will:

• run community events and workshops linked to arts, sport and everyday climate action
• provide resources and toolkits to support voluntary and community organisations, including energy advice and environmental audits
• offer opportunities for young people to build confidence and lead climate action
• carry out energy assessments for 70 community buildings to help cut costs and carbon
• strengthen connections and reduce isolation by bringing people together through shared climate projects

All activities will be designed to be inclusive and accessible, ensuring people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities can take part.

The message is clear: you don’t need to change the world alone — meaningful change starts with small steps taken together.

For updates, stories and ways to get involved, visit villagegreen.org.uk.