30 Days Wild kicks off on 1 June

Starting on Wednesday 1 June, 30 Days Wild challenges participants to do something 'wild' every day of the month, from having breakfast outdoors to making forest crafts.

Last year saw more than 760,000 people take part, but The Wildlife Trusts, which organise the challenge, expect even more to sign up this summer.

30 Days Wild is the perfect opportunity for the families to get creative and attract wildlife into the garden (Tom and Evie Photography).

Participants are encouraged to follow their own interpretation of doing something wild, but it is hoped that the 30-day challenge will help connect people with nature. A survey of 2021 participants revealed that 88% said they were very likely to make their garden more wildlife-friendly after the challenge.

Actor Cel Spellman is backing this year's event and believes strongly in the health and wellbeing benefits of spending time in nature. He said: "30 Days Wild is a firm fixture in our household calendar and it's a brilliant motivator for getting outside and experiencing all the amazing things nature has to offer. The natural world is struggling but there are so many things that we can do to help.

"I really enjoy improving my garden for wildlife and noting the different species that come to visit. My favourites are the bee-flies that arrive in early spring, the goldfinches that always turn up, and the large red damselflies that enjoy my pond. 30 Days Wild also reminds me to take time to be still in nature, and enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of being outside."

A five-year review of 30 Days Wild participants founds that the positive effects lasted for two months after the end of the challenge, providing lasting boosts to health and happiness.

Part of the challenge could simply be a walk in nature with a friend (Eleonor Church).

The challenge is supported by the People's Postcode Lottery. Laura Chow, Head of Charities at the lottery, said: "I'm delighted funding raised by our players is encouraging people across the country to experience the benefits of being outside and beside nature.

"Every year we encourage the team at People's Postcode Lottery to get involved in 30 Days Wild and I love to see all the creative ways people bring a little bit of the wild to their day. Whether it's having a meeting outside, eating lunch on the grass or picking up a piece of litter on a walk, there are lots of ways – big and small – to go wild and connect with nature."

People of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to take part. They include Alison Loudon from Coatbridge, near Glasgow, who first took part during the 2020 lockdown and has made bug hotels and planted wildflowers, and Ayesha from London who has created a wildlife pond with her six-year-old daughter.

Sign up to take part in 30 Days Wild and receive free inspiration at: wildlifetrusts.org/30dayswild