Community groups working to protect red squirrels are invited to bid for funding from a new £250,000 grant pot. The Red Squirrel Recovery Network (RSRN) aims to engage people from all backgrounds, offering grants from £500 for smaller activities up to £5,000 for projects with a wider reach.
The RSRN, which began in 2025, collaborates with conservation partners and volunteer groups across Northumberland, Cumbria, Manchester, Lancashire, Merseyside, and southern Scotland. Its goal is to raise awareness of the endangered species.
Red squirrel populations across Britain have seen a dramatic decline, with estimates placing their numbers at about 287,000. Causes for this decline include the introduction of grey squirrels from the USA and Canada starting in 1876, which spread the squirrelpox virus, fatal only to red squirrels, according to Natural England. Habitat loss and weak enforcement of existing protections are also contributing factors, as stated by animal welfare group Save Our Reds.
Heather Harris from the RSRN said the project, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, seeks to "remind everyone of why red squirrels are so important to our heritage." The network is keen to support plans that help local communities celebrate red squirrels and reconnect with nature, such as themed walks or improving conservation-linked spaces.