The Charlton Kings Swift & House Martin Support Group

The Charlton Kings Swift & House Martin Group was set up by local residents Sarah Payne and Tom Mabbett, who wanted to make a difference for these much-loved summer visitors.

After exploring options for a community swift tower, they decided instead to focus on helping residents install nest boxes and protect existing nesting sites across the area.

Supported by Cheltenham Action for Nature, the group is building a network of local people who care about these birds – from spotting and mapping nesting sites to sharing advice and installing boxes and callers.

It’s a grassroots effort to give swifts and house martins a secure future in Charlton Kings, one home at a time.

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Cheltenham Gardens for Nature

Growing a neighbourhood network for wildlife

Cheltenham Gardens for Nature brings together gardens, balconies and outdoor spaces across Cheltenham to support wildlife and strengthen connections between habitats.

Gardens make up a significant proportion of the town and have huge potential to provide food, shelter and movement corridors for wildlife. This project focuses on recognising that potential and helping people take simple, practical steps for nature where they live.

The project begins with a simple online checklist where residents can share what’s happening in their gardens and, if they would like, pledge their space for nature. This helps build a clearer picture of where wildlife-friendly spaces already exist and where connections can be strengthened.

Over time, Cheltenham Gardens for Nature will grow to include more ways to get involved – sharing ideas, supporting action, and connecting people across streets and communities.

These activities support the work led by Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust, helping link local action into the People’s Nature Reserve.