We are thrilled to announce that the Blue Influencers Scheme has officially launched in the area, with our dedicated project officer, Dan, leading the charge.
The scheme is a new, exciting chapter in the Trust's work, empowering young people to connect with and care for the vital aquatic habitats on their doorsteps – from the River Ray and local streams to the ponds and lakes that dot the landscape.
The Blue Influencers Scheme is a nationwide programme funded by The Ernest Cook Trust, designed to empower young people to become leaders in environmental change. Here in Wiltshire, we are focusing this energy on Swindon's blue network. The initiative supports groups of students in designing and delivering their own unique projects, fostering a profound, hands-on connection with the natural world.
Whether it’s creating a new wetland area on school grounds, monitoring the health of a local stream, or restoring a habitat at a nature reserve, the projects are chosen and led by the young people themselves. This approach ensures they are not just participants, but true partners in conservation.
Swindon Lagoons. Credit: Ryan Tabor.
Over the past few weeks, we have been visiting primary and secondary schools across Swindon to introduce the scheme. The response has been fantastic, and we're delighted to have already recruited our first cohorts, who are poised to begin their inspiring projects this September.
To capture the imagination of potential Blue Influencers, Dan arrived armed with a collection of natural treasures. While the beautiful, evocative illustrations by artist Jackie Morris and a set of interactive wildlife Top Trumps cards certainly sparked interest, it was the tangible connection to local wildlife that truly captivated the students. The chance to feel the delicate, patterned shed skin of a grass snake and examine the intricate, beaky skull of a mute swan proved to be a powerful hook, inspiring awe and countless questions. These real-life objects transformed abstract ideas about nature into a fascinating, tactile reality.
With the first groups of enthusiastic Blue Influencers now in place, the real work—and fun—is about to begin. From September, these young conservationists will start turning their ideas into action, making a direct, positive impact on Swindon's environment. We can't wait to see the incredible projects they develop, which will not only enhance biodiversity but also build a legacy of environmental stewardship in the community.
We will be following their journey closely, sharing updates and celebrating their achievements along the way. This is just the beginning of a powerful new current of youth-led conservation in Wiltshire.
Could your school or youth group get involved? The Blue Influencers Scheme is actively seeking more groups of young people to take part. If you are interested in finding out more, please contact bluementor@wiltshirewildlife.org
