Charity wins National Lottery funding for tree planting

CPRE Sussex has received National Lottery funding to continue supporting community tree planting in Brighton & Hove.

The charity successfully bid for £8,600 from the National Lottery Community Fund to support its Plant Your Postcode (PYP) scheme.

Nancy Duckels, CPRE Sussex Campaigns and Communications Manager, said: “Tree canopy in Brighton & Hove is at an all-time low and getting worse as trees are lost to age and disease. This money will allow us to help communities plant trees in their streets through our largely volunteer-led Plant Your Postcode scheme and to build on our previous success.”

The lottery funding will be used to help pay for the CPRE Sussex Plant Your Postcode Manager.

The Plant Your Postcode Manager supports communities with their tree planting projects and helps coordinate the annual Tree Festival – raising awareness of the value of trees.

Plant Your Postcode Manager Jen Eneke is currently supporting multiple community planting projects across the city.

“Plant Your Postcode is an opportunity for residents to appreciate the nature on their doorstep,” said Jen. “There are many environmental benefits to increasing tree cover. But community-led tree planting is also about growing connections. Our experience is that it brings neighbours together, builds pride in shared spaces and creates lasting roots for the community.” 

Nancy added: “Having a dedicated Plant Your Postcode Manager has proved to be a catalyst for nurturing fledgling tree planting projects to a successful conclusion. We expect to support more than 1,000 volunteers and supporters in the next phase of planting. This grant will ensure we can continue to offer tailored support to help those communities connect with and care for their treescape.” 

Anyone who would like to find out more about Plant Your Postcode and how to start a tree planting project in their area can visit cpresussex.org.uk/plant-your-postcode/