The world feels like it's turning upside down with political instability, financial turmoil and global changes. Is this a brief moment in time or the dawn of a new world order? A moment of hope or despair? 

This is my first blog as the new Chief Executive of Worcestershire Wildlife Trust. I began this role at the start of the year, succeeding Colin Raven after his remarkable 30-year tenure and nearly 40-year career within the Wildlife Trusts, most of which was spent in Worcestershire. The past 10 weeks have flown by as the Trust continues to strive to make a difference. 

In my first month, we received news that the Orchard Farm development of 300 homes adjacent to Tiddesley Wood was approved by the planning inspector. Unfortunately, nature lost out due to the lack of a five-year housing supply, despite our best efforts and those of Wychavon District Council and the people of Pershore. Short-term needs triumphed over long-term impacts on the beloved Tiddesley Wood and the wildlife that depends on it. 

Throughout Colin's tenure, the Trust navigated significant political and social changes. Despite these challenges, nature reserves were acquired, managed and expanded. Funds were raised, advice was given, developments were influenced and children were inspired by nature. Volunteers rallied to support the Trust's work, making a little go a long way alongside our small, talented and dedicated staff. 

The Trust has grown sustainably, built on solid foundations. We've saved meadows, restored heathlands, created wetlands and planted woodlands. Our leaking portacabins near the canal in Droitwich were replaced by the relatively palatial (i.e. not leaking) Lower Smite Farm, which has been our base with fantastic facilities for our work since 1990.

The Trust has always responded to present needs to make a difference for the future, identifying where our efforts are most needed. We've consistently built for the future, pinpointing key sites in priority areas where our landholdings can start modestly and grow over many years. 

Society's focus on the short-term is largely driven by political cycles and financial impatience. This has always been the case and today is no different. Meanwhile, nature moves at a different pace than we humans. For the Trust, it's always been about the long-term - what is needed decades ahead, not next week. We plant new, expanded woodlands that we may not personally see mature. We invest in children's love of nature, hoping they will continue that love as adults. We purchase land to make our nature reserves bigger, better and more connected over time. Hope, not despair. Action, not despair. Making an impact in whatever way we can. 

Nature's recovery is not a given; it requires the efforts of many people at every level, here in Worcestershire and beyond. Partnerships, collaboration and people working together are essential. Our work has always been about people and hope - our wonderful committed volunteers, talented staff and amazing members. My priority is to ensure the Trust remains focused on the long-term, making a difference today while looking decades ahead. 

Some of you reading this may already be working with the Trust, while others may not. If you're looking to make a difference, get in touch. We'd love to hear from you.