I really appreciate the faith that SWT has put in me to take on this role at this critical time. I’m passionate about improving nature biodiversity and tackling the climate crisis in Staffordshire and will continue my efforts to push for stronger environmental legislation and protections.SWT Patron
Staffordshire Wildlife Trust welcomes new Patron
Stoke-on-Trent has been at the heart of some of the Trust’s major river restoration work and community projects in the past decade. With exciting plans underway for future work in the city, it’s fitting that our new patron is from the potteries.
SWT Patron Joan Walley
Stoke-on-Trent has been at the heart of some of the Trust’s major river restoration work and community projects in the past decade. With exciting plans underway for future work in the city, it’s fitting that our new patron is from the potteries.
We’re excited to welcome Joan Walley who served as Member of Parliament (MP) for Stoke-on-Trent North from the 1987 general election until 2015. Joan is also Honorary Freeman of the city of Stoke-on-Trent, a Freeman of the town of Kidsgrove, and passionate environmentalist. With her background, knowledge, and connections, she’s the perfect fit for the role and will be a real asset to the Trust. Joan is well respected locally and has a proven track record of successfully influencing key decisions in health and environmental policies, both locally and nationally.
Joan’s passion for nature extends to wanting to make sure everyone can access it and benefit from it. She knows how important this is for health and wellbeing, so she’s well aligned with our strategy in this respect too.
Overall, Joan fits the role perfectly and we look forward to her support as Patron.
Joan spoke at our celebration event where we unveiled our vision for a Transforming the Trent Headwaters scheme (in September 2025). Speaking about this Stoke-on-Trent focused project she said: “In Stoke-on-Trent all connections to the River Trent have been engineered out of our lives for industry and we need to bring it back to become proud of the river.
“We need to transform nature and personal health for future generations; for ourselves, our children and our grandchildren. Vision without action is just a dream. Action without vision is a waste of time. We need to take this forward in an ambitious way.”
Our Patron: A Champion for Nature
The Patron of Staffordshire Wildlife Trust is a passionate ambassador who helps spread the word about our work to protect wildlife and wild places. While the role is honorary and not involved in day-to-day decisions, it’s incredibly important in inspiring others and growing support for nature.
They proudly promote our campaigns, celebrate our successes, and often join us at special events like nature reserve openings, community projects, and fundraising activities. Working closely with our Chair and CEO, the Patron also helps boost appeals and connect us with new supporters, partners, and funders.
Most importantly, our Patron leads by example—encouraging people to care about the environment and take action to help wildlife thrive.