Empowering Northern Communities

Year 2 report final, Northern Networks

The Northern Network – Green Community Hubs programme continues to transform local places by supporting communities to co-design, build, and sustain green spaces across the North of England. Delivered by a partnership of five northern Groundwork Trusts—including Groundwork Yorkshire—the National Lottery Community Fund programme focuses on improving health, enhancing local biodiversity, and building resilient communities.

The Year 2 Report reflects significant progress against key targets and showcases how community-led green spaces deliver long-term impact.

Key Performance & Impact Highlights

  • 10 Green Community Hubs Supported: In Year 2, ten local sites received tailored, in-depth support from Groundwork Project Facilitators.

  • Active Co-Design: 623 individuals directly participated in co-designing and consulting on hub plans.

  • Wider Reach & Health: Over 3,300 participants engaged in GCH activities, with 88% reporting physical health improvements and 81% noting positive mental health benefits.

  • Dedicated Volunteers: Steering group volunteers contributed over 4,637 hours—the equivalent of £53,532 in volunteer time.

  • Environmental Gains: Projects improved over 26,420 m² of land for nature and delivered 168 targeted biodiversity actions.

  • Financial Sustainability: Distributed £100,298 in small capital grants and raised over £725,000 in total match funding across Years 1 and 2.

Spotlight on Yorkshire & Regional Case Studies

Among the regional achievements highlighted in Year 2, community leadership took center stage:

  • Aysgarth Greenspace Community (Leeds): Groundwork Yorkshire supported local residents to develop gardening, craft, and woodwork projects around a local park and community centre. The initiative empowered local volunteers to take on leadership roles, culminating in paid employment opportunities, youth clubs, and long-term funding plans for site custodianship.

  • Wensley Green Community Hub (Sheffield): Focusing on inclusive youth engagement and outdoor nature connection, this hub expanded access through sports such as climbing, cycling, and canoeing. The initiative successfully re-branded the local climbing club, introducing more young women and individuals from minority backgrounds to outdoor activities.

Looking Ahead

As the project enters its third year, Groundwork will continue expanding its network, refining facilitator support models, and embedding long-term sustainability plans across hub sites. The rollout of the Green Leadership Academy will further empower up to 60 local Green Leaders through structured training and mentoring, ensuring community-led green transformation endures for years to come.