Young People from Compass Dorset have been training for the Jubilee Challenge, using new equipment purchased with their Moor Boots grant. The DPA were delighted to grant their application for funding for six students, who all required walking boots, waterproof jackets and waterproof trousers.

Moor Boots is our small grant giving scheme, which seeks to remove financial barriers to accessing nature, by enabling young people to buy essential equipment. Without this support, these young people would be unable to take part in outdoor events, including Ten Tors and the Jubilee Challenge. We firmly believe that young people having access to the unique landscape of Dartmoor is absolutely vital, not only because it boosts their own confidence and sense of independence, but also because it creates space for them to build a relationship with the landscape. This means that, going forwards, they are more likely to become responsible custodians of Dartmoor, equipped with the desire to speak up for a place that they cherish.

Here’s what the students from Compass Dorset had to say:

‘I am a child in care and I’m looking forward to being independent for the weekend. I’ve never walked this far before or camped overnight.’

‘[without Moor Boots] I won’t be able to attend the training walks or main event as I don’t have walking boots or trousers. My mum can’t get them for me. I would love to go. I like the training walks and I’ve seen pictures for the Jubilee Challenge.’

‘I have 9 brothers and sisters and I like walking as it gives me space on my own that they can’t interrupt.’

‘I want to join the army after I finish school and I know there will be lots of army things to do at the Jubilee Challenge and I want to talk to them about a career after school. Its hard for me to do this where I live.’

‘I’m only attending school on the walking days because I’m scared of big groups and mixing with people. This will help my confidence. I [didn’t] have any boots to walk in and Mark says we need them.’

So far, we have supplied grants to 56 applicants, making a real difference for these young people, who can now access Dartmoor comfortably, alongside their peers. We are looking forward to sharing more updates as the Compass Dorset team, and others, continue their training. Applications for our Moor Boots grants are still open on our website, if you know a young person who would benefit from support.