Keeping Scilly Special

Isles of Scilly from Space © Dr David P Moore

A Small Trust with a Big Impact

Despite being the smallest wildlife trust in the UK by staff and turnover, the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust has an extraordinary reach across more than 200 islands and rocks.

Working in partnership with Tresco Estate, the Trust manages all publicly accessible land rich in wildlife, maintains over 50 miles of footpaths, and cares for around 200 Scheduled Monuments.

Conservation and Community

The Trust plays a central role in conservation, research, and community engagement across the islands. It employs approximately 0.75% of the local population, making it the largest voluntary sector employer in the archipelago.

As pressures from climate change, sustainable tourism, and increasing visitor numbers grow, this work becomes ever more vital.

Supporting Local Wellbeing

One of the Trust’s key initiatives is the Community Ranger programme, led by Simon Nicholls. Supported by the Community Levelling-Up Fund, this programme connects people with nature while addressing social isolation and mental health.

Through projects like the “Scilly Shed,” the initiative creates inclusive spaces where practical skills, wellbeing, and community resilience come together.

Ringed plover incubating (c) Tom Hibbert

Protecting Wildlife for the Future

The Trust is also advancing important conservation initiatives such as the Seabird Recovery Project and research into the impact of recreational disturbance on vulnerable species like the ringed plover.

These efforts are essential to maintaining the delicate balance between human activity and wildlife protection across the islands.

Enduring Impact

Through this partnership, NCCT is helping to ensure that the Isles of Scilly remain a haven for wildlife, a place of natural beauty, and a thriving community for generations to come.