Since 2023, we have been partially funding a Community Engagement Ranger, in collaboration with Dartmoor National Park. Looking back at a year of invaluable work with young people, we are delighted with the success of the Dartmoor Youth Rangers, and the tireless work of Engagement Ranger Kats Koster-Shadbolt.

Between April 2023 and March 2024 there have been 20 Youth Ranger events, plus an additional Night Under the Stars event for some of the young people who attend. Each event was attended by an average of 17 young people, with 78 different young people attending events throughout the year. This totals up at 1853 hours of Youth Ranger time given to understanding, exploring and conserving Dartmoor. Youth Ranger participants come from locations across Devon and Cornwall, delivered by committed family members who, in turn, spend more time exploring Dartmoor and deepening their understanding of the unique landscape of the national park.

The programme has run at full capacity throughout, assisted by 10 enthusiastic adult volunteers. Young people have continued to show up in all weathers, demonstrating the high value they place on time spent as part of the Youth Rangers group. Many participants are neurodivergent and/or have social, emotional and mental health needs, which mean they struggle with school and extra curricular groups. Feedback has been that being part of the Dartmoor Youth Rangers allows them to be themselves and connect with others who share their passions and challenges.

When asked why they joined and why the keep coming to Dartmoor Youth Rangers, many of the young people said that their parents and CVs were the initial motivators but it’s the friends they make and the skills they gain that keep them coming back.