In 2026 we must all help the natural world, now more than ever, because it is so much under threat. The good news is that those of you caring for churchyards are in a privileged position, because you can help turn the tide so easily. Lots of you are doing this already (over 40 churchyards have conservation awards with more working towards them in 2026) but if you haven't taken much action so far, I strongly urge you to do so in 2026!
In 2024 the General Synod sent out a clear message about the fragility of life on earth and passed a motion asking all churches to set an example of how to live in greater harmony with the natural world by becoming havens for wildlife, in addition to being places of burial. See listed below some information, advice and inspiration - to help you make the necessary adjustments, or continue the good work.
Remember: ‘What happens next is up to all of us’ (David Attenborough)
- Join Caring for God's Acre and/or regularly look at their fantastic website for ideas and inspiration.
- Refresh your memory about the Churchyard Conservation Award scoring system.
- Look at the example of a management plan for further ideas and use it as a template if you want to.
- Try to establish a group of volunteers to help you in the churchyard, for example with grass cutting and collecting.
Things to consider in January
It is not to late to plant wildflower bulbs 'in the green' i.e. lifted and planted while actively growing. Ask local people to split plants in their gardens such as snowdrops, wood anenome, wild daffodil (narcissus pseudonarcissus), crocus. These plants provide much needed nectar for early bees and insects.
- Plant bare root and hedging whips now
- Leave seed heads for birds and insets and piles of logs and leaves.
- Ensure an early grass cut for the churchyard summer flower area and order native wild flower seeds, if appropriate. You may want to involve others in growing plug plants.
Good luck with your endeavours and please get in touch with your queries and comments.
Diana Cook
Diana.Cook@wildlifebcn.org
Co-ordinator, Cambridgeshire Churchyard Conservation Award