TO ESTABLISH COUNTRYSIDE PERCEPTIONS OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN EAST DEVON/DORSET

The countryside has changed both in landscape and in use for many reasons throughout history, as too have society's perception and value of it. However, in the research that has been carried out about the countryside and related issues. young people have not been represented. Therefore the main aim for this project was to establish the present countryside beliefs and perceptions of young people (16 -18) living in East Devon/Dorset in comparison to national surveys and within a wider context. In pursuing these aims, the research focused on a number of specific objectives: • To identify the perceptions of young people on the current state of the countryside; e To establish the importance of the future of the countryside to the young people in East Devon and West Dorset at local, national and global levels; • To review literature on the perceptions of the countryside and that of young people The research consisted of a questionnaire which was derived from /fOCUS group sessions and trialled drafts. Three local schools within the same catchment area were selected and staff at the school approached to assist in the distribution and collection of the completed work. This ensured a positive return in replies. The data was analysed within an SPSS package and the results shown in graph and table format. The results show that young people have clear views upon the countrySide, and that the majority see the countryside as being very important. Yet they do not feel listened to neither receive enough information on how they could do their part in protecting it. They believe that farming is an essential part of keeping the countrySide for the future and see their immediate countryside surroundings at being most at threat They are most concerned by local countryside issues, followed by national and then global. Young people have been underrepresented in research beforebLifhave valid views to contribute to the rest of society's viewpoints on the state of the countryside. This research supports the view that young people should be included in research on the countryside and what it means to them and future generations.School of Geography, Faculty of Social Science & Busines