About Fields in trust
Fields in Trust: Protecting Our Green Spaces for Future Generations
Fields in Trust is a UK-based charity that champions and supports our parks and green spaces by protecting them for people to enjoy in perpetuity. The organization has been working tirelessly since 1925 to safeguard these precious areas of land, which are essential for the health and wellbeing of both individuals and communities.
The importance of green spaces cannot be overstated. They provide a range of benefits, from improving physical health through exercise to boosting mental wellbeing by providing a space for relaxation and contemplation. Parks also play an important role in bringing communities together, providing a space where people can socialize, participate in activities, or simply enjoy the natural beauty around them.
Despite their many benefits, however, parks and green spaces are under threat from development pressures. As cities grow ever larger and more crowded, there is increasing pressure on landowners to sell off their assets for development purposes. This can lead to the loss of valuable green spaces that have been enjoyed by generations of local residents.
Fields in Trust works to prevent this from happening by protecting parks and other green spaces through legal agreements known as Deeds of Dedication. These agreements ensure that the land remains protected forever, even if ownership changes hands over time.
In addition to protecting existing parks and green spaces, Fields in Trust also works with local authorities and other organizations to create new ones where they are needed most. This includes working with developers on new housing developments or regeneration projects to ensure that adequate provision is made for public open space.
One example of this work is the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in London's East End. Following the 2012 Olympic Games, Fields in Trust worked with local authorities to secure permanent protection for much of the parkland surrounding the main stadium complex. This means that future generations will be able to enjoy this beautiful area long after memories of the games themselves have faded away.
Another key area where Fields in Trust is making a difference is in promoting the use of green spaces for physical activity. The organization's Green Space Index provides a comprehensive overview of the quality and accessibility of parks and other open spaces across the UK, helping people to find suitable places to exercise and stay healthy.
Fields in Trust also works with local authorities and community groups to promote the use of parks for organized sports activities. This includes providing funding for new facilities such as football pitches or basketball courts, as well as supporting initiatives that encourage people to get active outdoors.
Overall, Fields in Trust plays a vital role in protecting our green spaces for future generations. By working with local authorities, developers, and communities across the UK, this charity ensures that everyone has access to high-quality parks and open spaces that are essential for our health, wellbeing, and happiness.