An intertidal survey, held on 29 July, gave participants the chance to explore the shore at Eastney Beach and record marine wildlife. Around 20 people searched beneath rocks and among seaweed to uncover a variety of coastal species, with crabs proving one of the day's most popular finds.
Participants used ID guides and the iNaturalist app to identify and record their discoveries, contributing valuable wildlife records to a national database, while learning more about their local marine life.
The event is the first in a programme of activities being delivered through a new partnership between the Trust and Action Asylum. Action Asylum is a national initiative that brings people seeking asylum together with environmental organisations through practical conservation activities. The programme helps participants develop skills, confidence and connections while making a positive contribution to nature and their local communities.
Kira Fuller, Marine Engagement Officer at Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, said: "It was fantastic to welcome the group to Eastney Beach and share some of the incredible marine life found right on Portsmouth's doorstep.
"There was a real sense of excitement throughout the day as people discovered different species and learned more about their local wildlife. Crabs were definitely a hit. One participant proudly showed me more than 30 animals and plants she had recorded using the iNaturalist app.
"Events like this show how nature can bring people together. Regardless of background or experience, when people spend time outdoors and work alongside one another, barriers quickly disappear. We saw people share discoveries, learn from each other and develop new connections throughout the day.”
Participants spoke warmly about the experience.
Joao said: "I like volunteering because I get to go out and meet new people and do something that means something."
Fasnuun added: "I really enjoyed this activity and felt very happy throughout the day. I didn’t face any challenges. I especially loved seeing the animals, and it was wonderful spending time with my young son. We worked together very well and were both excited to take part. I would like to sincerely thank everyone who organised this wonderful activity. Your hard work is greatly appreciated, and I hope more activities like this will be organised in the future."
Trica shared: “I would like to take part in this activity in the future because it was very interesting seeing all the sea animals, meeting new friends and having fun while taking part in this activity.”
In Portsmouth, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust works alongside Action Asylum, Portsmouth City of Sanctuary and a network of local green partners to deliver the programme. Volunteers take part in regular sessions at a local community garden and across Portsmouth's parks and green spaces, working alongside Portsmouth City Council's Clean and Green Team and the Portsmouth Tree Wardens.
John Ashlin, Action Asylum Coordinator at Portsmouth City of Sanctuary, said: "Activities like this are incredibly important for people seeking asylum. They provide opportunities to spend time outdoors, connect with others and improve wellbeing while making a positive contribution to the local environment
"Many of the people we work with bring a wealth of skills, qualifications and experience. Volunteering helps people build confidence, develop new skills and prepare for the time when they are able to work and settle in the UK. Taking climate action together gives people a sense of purpose and belonging, while also helping them feel part of their local community.
"Working alongside organisations like Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust creates opportunities for people from different backgrounds to come together around something positive that benefits everyone."
The partnership also plays a vital role in addressing the interconnected climate and nature crises. Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust recognises that these challenges are deeply linked and that restoring habitats while engaging more people in nature’s recovery are essential steps toward a healthier, more resilient future.
Through Action Asylum, participants not only help wildlife but also demonstrate how environmental action can create opportunities, foster understanding, and unite people through a shared commitment to nature.
Action Asylum has recently expanded from seven to 10 cities across the UK, with Portsmouth being one of the original city projects. Over the past four years, its volunteers have made a tangible difference, planting over 25,000 trees nationwide - with 2,500 trees and tree whips planted in Portsmouth alone.
Dawn OMalley, Senior Engagement Manager for Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust adds: “The climate and nature crises affect all of us, and tackling them requires all of us too. By bringing people together through shared environmental action, the partnership aims to support nature's recovery while creating stronger, more connected communities where everyone can take positive action for nature together."
Thanks to National Lottery players, £1.62 million has been awarded by The National Lottery Community Fund through its Climate Action Fund programme to support the next phase of Action Asylum. Nationally, more than 3,000 volunteers will be involved over the next three years, with 120 large-scale Climate Action Events planned and a new Skills Exchange Programme designed to support pathways into conservation and green careers. Participants will be able to gain practical environmental skills, qualifications and leadership experience, while environmental organisations will benefit from training to help make the sector more inclusive and accessible.
