Let’s Talk Access to Nature.
Tom Usher, chief executive of the Dartmoor Preservation Association
In this episode of Let's Talk Social Value, Sarah Stone is joined by Tom Usher, chief executive of the Dartmoor Preservation Association, an independent charity that has worked to protect and enhance Dartmoor since 1883.
Tom explains how national parks work, including the complex mix of private and institutional land ownership behind landscapes that many people assume are publicly owned. He describes the Dartmoor Preservation Association as a campaigning organisation, land manager and "critical friend" to the National Park Authority, with a focus on conservation, biodiversity and public access.
The conversation explores the legal challenge to Dartmoor's wild camping bylaw. Tom outlines how the case moved from the High Court to the Court of Appeal and then the Supreme Court, where five judges unanimously found in favour of the National Park Authority. The result preserved the bylaw and helped spark a much wider conversation about access to nature.
Sarah and Tom also discuss why access matters. From mental wellbeing and time away from screens to confidence, teamwork and employability, outdoor experiences can give people new perspectives and practical building blocks. Tom highlights the barriers faced by young people who cannot afford equipment or access organised opportunities, and discusses initiatives including Moor Boots, the Public Access Fund and a partnership with South Dartmoor Community College.
For businesses and social value professionals, the episode offers practical routes to action: unrestricted funding, well-planned volunteering days, specialist expertise, adopting a project and supporting long-term programmes shaped by communities themselves.
“When you're out there and experiencing these things, your world broadens." - Tom Usher
Listen in to find out:
What a national park designation means and who owns the land
The role of the Dartmoor Preservation Association
Why the wild camping case had implications beyond tents
The personal and social value of access to nature
How outdoor experiences can support younger people
Useful ways businesses can contribute money, people and expertise
Three practical actions listeners can take
Show notes:
Dartmoor Preservation Association
🔗 https://www.dartmoorpreservation.co.uk
Volunteer with the Dartmoor Preservation Association
🔗 https://www.dartmoorpreservation.co.uk/volunteering
Contact the Dartmoor Preservation Association
📧 info@dartmoorpreservation.co.uk
Open Spaces Society
🔗 https://www.oss.org.uk/
The Stars Are For Everyone
🔗 https://www.starsareforeveryone.com/
Dartmoor National Park Authority
🔗 https://www.dartmoor.gov.uk/
Fix The Fells
🔗 https://www.fixthefells.co.uk/
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The UK Government has published PPN 026: The Social Value Model, introducing a substantially more focused approach to social value in central government procurement. Published on 5 August 2026, the new model concentrates social value evaluation on British jobs, skills and opportunities within local communities. Detailed supporting guidance is expected in autumn 2026.