Rethinking Parks Project

In 2018 the Leeds Parks Fund received funding from Rethinking Parks to undertake a 2-year project to investigate the potential of charitable giving to parks. Funded by the National Lottery Community Fund, Heritage Lottery Fund and Nesta, Rethinking Parks aims to develop promising and innovative new operating models for parks across the country. The Leeds Parks Fund was one of eight projects chosen to trial ways of improving park sustainability. The aim of the project is to make a positive difference to Leeds parks and their communities by inspiring individuals and businesses to make charitable donations to Leeds parks and greenspaces.

Research

The first phase of the project is research led by University of Leeds into what local people and businesses think about the idea of charitable giving to public parks. This involved surveying the views of over 1400 residents and almost 150 business leaders as well as investigating the views of a smaller group in more depth in interviews and focus groups. The research findings will be used to inform and shape the Fund’s work programme.

Recruiting Staff

The grant from Rethinking Parks has enabled us to recruit a fundraising manager to devise and implement a fundraising strategy. Active fundraising began in March 2019 with the launch of a corporate supporter programme.. Our first goal is to reach a target of £25,000 so we can launch our first grants funding round in 2019.

Further Information

To find out more about the Leeds Parks Fund project, or get involved, email leedsparksfund@leeds.gov.uk