Branch Out

What is Branch Out?

Branch Out is a funding programme established by Northumbrian Water (NWG) to strengthen the resilience of the natural environment across its operating areas. It supports projects that deliver enduring benefits for habitats, species, water, and the communities connected to them.

How does the Branch Out scheme work?

The programme operates across NWG’s principal catchments in the North East and in Essex and Suffolk, with investment focused on biodiversity enhancement, habitat connectivity, and the management of invasive non-native species.

Delivery is structured through three funding streams: Branch Out Original, which supports habitat restoration and reconnection; Invasive Non-Native Species (INNS), which enables coordinated management action; and Landscape Connectivity, which prioritises vulnerable habitats and species requiring targeted conservation support.

What is Tees Valley Wildlife Trust’s involvement in the scheme?

Tees Valley Wildlife Trust contributes to the scheme through the secondment of Project Manager, Thomas Richardson into NWG. This arrangement provides consistent programme management, supports partnership development, oversees assessment processes, and ensures appropriate monitoring of funded activity.

Thomas also supports alignment between Branch Out and other NWG partnership initiatives, including Bluespaces and Field to Tap. As a result, partner collaboration is strengthened, delivery across catchments is better coordinated, and the overall environmental impact of the programme is enhanced through a more joined-up and strategic approach.

Thomas said, 

“It’s a real privilege to be involved in a scheme like this and to see first-hand just how important these projects are. Every day, I have the opportunity to work alongside passionate individuals on initiatives that make a genuine difference for wildlife, habitats, and the wider natural environment. One of the most rewarding parts of the role is the collaboration behind it all, and the strong partnership between Northumbrian Water and Tees Valley Wildlife Trust. By working together, and with our wider partners, we’re able to deliver projects that have a lasting impact, and I’m incredibly proud to play a part in that.”

How to apply for funding

If you have a project in mind and would like to see if you are eligible for funding, please visit Branch Out for eligibility criteria and application forms. If you would like to chat about a potential project or have any other enquiries, please get in touch with Thomas and the Branch Out team at [email protected]