It started with a look around – Margaret and David’s story

Life does not often stop long enough for you to admire the view. From work and family to everyday chores, there is so much that distracts us from the beauty of our natural environment.

But when Margaret and David had a chance to slow down, they became curious to explore. They discovered Hamiltonhill Claypits Local Nature Reserve was very close to their home. And it was not long before they became active again, restoring a green space and finding a fresh sense of purpose.

Hamiltonhill Claypits is supported by the Climate Action Fund (CAF). CAF supports communities across the UK to act on climate change and involve more people in environmental action.

Rebuilding Hamiltonhill Claypits

The Claypits run through Glasgow along a section of the Forth and Clyde Canal. Work to rejuvenate the area started during the pandemic. Seeing the large-scale changes taking place, Margaret and David knew it was something they wanted to be part of.

It's now a flourishing reserve, a diverse wildlife haven spanning meadows, woodland, ponds and more.

But change for the Claypits relies on community support to keep the nature reserve clean and connected.

Taking on a new challenge

Volunteering was a rare luxury while Margaret and David worked, clocking in for shift jobs day and night. But when they retired, they could appreciate their surroundings and indulge their curiosity. They were able to truly appreciate the natural treasure that was growing nearby without them realising it.

Whether it's clearing litter or weeds, guiding birdwatchers or students, they are fully dedicated to the project.

"We have avid birdwatchers who lead walks, supplying binoculars and showing people the birds," Margaret says. The project has led to early morning breeding surveys, where species like the rare water rail are monitored.

At the same time, they're cultivating a pleasant place for wildlife and wanderers. They also encourage people to do what they did – get involved and discover the joys of a thriving natural space on the edge of the city.

Giving back

Margaret and David have found that volunteering benefits them just as much as the reserve. They have found that the cleaner and greener the site is, the more restorative it is for the mind.

"I've had Parkinson's for 14 years and it affects my wellbeing," David says. "I've had depressed periods, but I go up to the Claypits and you can just sit there and watch your world go by, enjoy that hour and be within yourself."

"Sometimes David is losing his voice a bit," Margaret says. "But when he goes up there, with like-minded people, and he's talking about the birds, it comes back."

Community interaction is a huge draw for the hardworking volunteers at the Claypits. Their regular Green and Clean events attract between 20 and 40 litter picking volunteers.

"It's a very diverse, very friendly group," Margaret says. "We appreciate this little gem of nature, which is still inside the city."

Get started

With funding from CAF, local residents can equip themselves with the tools needed to run projects like Hamiltonhill Claypits. They can also enjoy the shared benefits of having a vibrant natural space for their whole community.

We support many different environmental projects. We offer grants from £300 up to £20,000 through our open Awards for All programme to grants over £500,000 through our Climate Action Fund.

Find out more about environment funding in your area and apply