A symposium to bring together organisations and practitioners to showcase how nature supports young people’s wellbeing.

Growing Futures: Inspiring Young People Through Nature

RHS, Edge Hill University and Natural England invite you to attend our upcoming symposium, Growing Futures: Inspiring Young People Through Nature, which will take place at RHS Bridgewater, Salford, on 8 September, 2026 from 9:30am to 3:30pm.

The aim of this event is to engage and influence commissioners, policymakers, and education leaders by bringing together organisations and practitioners to showcase how nature supports young people’s wellbeing. We hope to strengthen cross-sector networks, share practical insights into what works, for whom, and why, and help inform policy, commissioning, and sustainable investment in nature-based approaches that support young people.

Draft Programme

9.30am - Registration & suggestions

10-10.10am - Welcome to attendees

10:10 – 10:30am - RHS National Education Nature Park study and future of the Nature Park programme (Sam Hartley & Ashby Sachs)

10:30- 10:50am - 42nd Street: The work of the Natural Academy in Supporting CYP (Safiya Elgindy)

10:50 – 11:10am - Nature Well at Alder Hey CYP Hospital (Carl Dutton)

10-minute break

11:20-11:50am Q&A & Introduction to afternoon session

12-1pm Lunch

From 1pm - Outdoor group activities such as a guided walk around the Wellbeing Garden, activities in the Working Wood area and more (to be confirmed).

2pm Afternoon break

2:20pm - Group discussions on the theme of collaborative working between organisations facilitated by Cate Whitehead (TBC)

3:20pm Thank you & summary

FAQ's

How do I get there and where can I park?

Parking is free and is on the main visitor car park.

More information on getting to us can be found on our webpage here: Getting to RHS Garden Bridgewater / RHS

Is lunch provided?

This is a free event with teas & coffee provided. Please bring lunch with you or feel free to use the on-site cafes selling a range of hot and cold meals.

Can I hire a mobility scooter or wheelchair?

We have a limited number of mobility scooters and wheelchairs available to hire, subject to availability. To book directly, please contact bridgewaterwellbeing@rhs.org.uk. Upon arrival on the day of your visit, our Visitor Services Team will provide full training and ensure you are safe to operate the scooter.

More information on general accessibility at RHS Garden Bridgewater can be found on our webpage here: Accessibility at RHS Garden Bridgewater / RHS

What if I need to cancel?

As numbers are limited, please cancel your place on Eventbrite if you are no longer able to attend.

If you have any other questions or queries, please contact us at bridgewaterwellbeing@rhs.org.uk

Description supplied by the event organiser.