TOG’s Waterproofs & Wellies campaign, co-founded by TV presenter Julia Bradbury and her sister Gina Bradbury Fox, CEO of The Outdoor Guide and Foundation, and championed by children’s TV presenter Gemma Hunt with support from Tracey Crouch MP, seeks to foster a deep connection between young learners and nature by making the outdoors more accessible. Gina comments, “We are living through a physical and mental health crisis. 

A third of families whose children attend state primary schools live below the poverty line, and not having the right kit is a very real barrier to children enjoying the benefits of getting and playing outdoors. 

The Waterproofs & Wellies campaign ensures that children have the opportunity to explore, learn and truly enjoy nature, regardless of the weather conditions, by equipping schools with the basics – a waterproof jacket, over trousers and wellies. Our goal, with the support from businesses like Nikwax, is to gift 10 sets of waterproofs and wellies to every state primary school in the UK, approximately 20,000 of them!”

Nikwax is proud to contribute to this nationwide initiative by initially providing ten primary schools in the Weald area of the Southeast, close to Nikwax’s headquarters in Wadhurst, with ten sets of waterproofs and wellies to each school. 

The company’s commitment to environmental sustainability aligns seamlessly with the campaign’s ethos. Here Zoe Hewitt, Head of Marketing and Communications explains, “We believe that every child should have the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors whatever the weather, and we are excited to support The Outdoor Guide Foundation in making this vision a reality. Our PFC-free waterproofing and aftercare solutions ensure that these children will stay dry and comfortable while enjoying their outdoor time.”

Tracey Crouch MP, a long-time advocate for outdoor education and physical activity, stated, “I am thrilled to support the Waterproof & Wellies campaign, as it aligns perfectly with my commitment to promoting healthy and active lifestyles among children. Access to the outdoors is essential for their physical and mental wellbeing, and Nikwax’s generous support will make a real difference.”

Gemma Hunt, known for her work on popular children’s TV shows, shares this sentiment, emphasising the importance of hands-on experiences in nature for young minds. “As a Mum and a nature enthusiast, I know just how important it is to expose children to the wonders of the great outdoors,” said Hunt. “The Waterproofs & Wellies campaign gives children the right clothing to safely and comfortably explore nature and to have fun learning about life outdoors and away from screens. 

So far we have delivered 3000 kits to primary schools across the UK and raised over £90,000. Our goal is to raise £6 million to give even more children the opportunity to explore & adore nature.”

The Waterproof & Wellies campaign is set to make a significant impact in communities by removing barriers for children to get outdoors and enjoy nature. Nikwax’s involvement supports its vision to help people of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy the outdoors in comfort.