The nation’s forests made more welcoming, inclusive and accessible for thousands as £4m funding announced

18 June 2026 

The nation’s forests made more welcoming, inclusive and accessible for thousands as £4m funding announced 

Thousands more people will be able to benefit from time in nature, supporting physical and mental wellbeing and helping to reduce pressure on public services, following a new £4 million government investment toimprove access to the nation’s forests. 

Forestry England says the funding will help more people enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits of spending time outdoors, particularly those who currently face the greatest barriers to accessing green space. This includes people with disabilities, older visitors, families with additional access needs, and those who may not frequently visit the countryside due to perceived or physical barriers. 

The investment comes at a time when health experts continue to highlight the importance of preventative approaches to wellbeing, including increasing physical activity, supporting mental health, and reducing loneliness and inactivity. 

The nation’s forests are increasingly recognised as part of this wider preventative health infrastructure, offering accessible spaces that support physical and mental health and wellbeing. 

The funding builds on the Access for All programme, which has already delivered more than 110 accessibility improvements at over 60 forests since 2022. 

These include improved walking, wheeling and cycling routes, accessible seating and rest areas, inclusive play areas, all-terrain mobility scooters, communication boards, and Changing Places toilets, all designed to make it easier for more people to spend time outdoors in ways that work for them. 

For some visitors, these changes have already had a significant impact. 

One visitor to Forestry England Delamere said: 

“Using a mobility scooter has given me back the freedom to explore the forest with my granddaughter.” 

Another visitor commented: 

“At a time when tolerance and acceptance feel like they are getting further away, this is amazing.” 

Forestry England aims to ensure everyone can access and enjoy nature in a way that supports their health and wellbeing, whether that is walking, wheeling, cycling, meeting family, or simply spending time outdoors. 

Kate Allan, Programme Manager at Forestry England, said: 

“We want everyone to feel welcome in the nation’s forests and able to enjoy time in nature in their own way. This funding helps us continue removing barriers so more people can experience the physical and mental health benefits of being outdoors and supports wider efforts to improve wellbeing and reduce inequalities in access to nature.” 

The funding supports delivery of the Government’s commitments set out in the Environmental Improvement Plan, which aim to increase access to green space and encourage more people to spend time in nature as part of broader efforts to improve public health and wellbeing. 

Forestry England manages and cares for the nation’s forests, which receive millions of visits each year and play an increasingly important role in supporting physical activity, mental wellbeing, and social connection. 

Visitors can plan accessible trips to Forestry England sites online before travelling.