A new organisation, Soul Trail Wellbeing, has launched with the ambitious goal of reconnecting people from ethnic minority backgrounds to the natural world. According to the charity, there is a significant gap in outdoor participation among this group, with many not feeling represented or included in traditional outdoor activities.
The issue is not unique to the UK, but research suggests that there are particular barriers facing ethnic minorities when it comes to accessing and engaging with nature. A 2020 study found that people from black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) backgrounds were significantly less likely to participate in outdoor activities than their white counterparts.
Soul Trail Wellbeing hopes to address this issue by creating a more inclusive environment for all, regardless of background or ethnicity. The organisation is working with local communities, outdoor centres and conservation groups to develop programmes and initiatives that cater specifically to the needs and interests of ethnic minority groups.
The charity's founders argue that reconnecting people from ethnic minority backgrounds to nature can have numerous benefits, including improved mental and physical health, increased social connections and a greater sense of belonging in the community. By tackling these barriers head-on, Soul Trail Wellbeing believes it can help create a more inclusive and diverse outdoor culture.