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We are really pleased to announce that we have secured funding from the North Devon Coast National Landscape Community Fund to help more people experience the health and wellbeing benefits of North Devon's spectacular coastline.

The funding will enable our Coast Path Connectors community engagement team to hire community minibuses, removing one of the biggest barriers to participation by providing transport for people who would otherwise be unable to access the coast. Over the next six months, the project will support people to enjoy guided walks, connect with nature and explore some of North Devon's most beautiful coastal locations.

Participants will be invited from Flourish in Nature, the Moorland View and Ocean View wards at North Devon District Hospital, Devon Mind, and the Freedom Centre in Barnstaple. Ilfracombe and District Community Transport Association will collect participants from North Devon District Hospital and Barnstaple town centre, enabling groups of up to 12 people, accompanied by SWCPA volunteers and support workers, to take part.

The funding will also allow SWCPA to continue delivering walks for the Ilfracombe Friendship and Social Group, with transport available from Combe Martin and Ilfracombe town centre.

Over the course of the project, participants will visit and explore beautiful coastal locations including Baggy Point, Mortehoe and Northam Burrows. Walks will be supported by staff from North Devon National Landscape and National Trust Rangers, helping participants learn more about the area's unique wildlife, heritage and landscapes while enjoying the physical and mental health benefits of spending time outdoors.

Huw Davies, North Devon Community Engagement Lead says:

"Lack of available transport is one of the main barriers for local people accessing the North Devon National Landscape and the South West Coast Path. This funding allows the opportunity to experience the more remote parts of North Devon. There have been very positive responses from all partners and I’m confident that we are going to have some great walks. The SWCPA Coast Path Connectors have had great feedback from participants over the past three years and I’m looking forward to continuing this great work."

Laura Carolan, People & Place Officer at North Devon National Landscape, said

"We feel that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the beauty and health benefits of North Devon's coastline. We're delighted to support the SWCPA with this project, which will help people who may otherwise face barriers to accessing these special places. Spending time in nature can have a profound impact on wellbeing, and we hope that participants enjoy being out and about on the coast.”

The project builds on SWCPA Coast Path Connectors work in the area, making the South West Coast Path more accessible and recognising that transport can be a significant barrier for many people, particularly those experiencing mental ill health, social isolation or other challenges. We are really grateful to NDNL for this opportunity. 

Photo– Peppercombe to Abbotsham walk. View over Bideford Bay towards Clovelly and Hartland.