This week I was pleased to join colleagues from across the political spectrum in Parliament to support Insect Week and the Stand Tall for the Small campaign.

Insects may be tiny, but they play an enormous role in all of our lives. From pollinating the crops we rely on, to supporting wildlife and maintaining healthy ecosystems, they are essential to the natural world that we all depend on.

Yet many insect populations are declining, and scientists are working hard to better understand why. That’s why it’s so important that we encourage more young people to take an interest in nature and inspire the next generation of insect scientists.

One of the things I particularly like about Insect Week is that it encourages children and families to get outdoors, look a little closer at the world around them, and discover just how fascinating these often overlooked creatures really are. Whether it’s spotting butterflies in the garden, taking part in a local insect hunt or learning more about bees and other pollinators, every small action helps us better understand and appreciate the wildlife on our doorstep.

If you’re looking for something to do with the family this week, there are plenty of free activities and educational resources available through Insect Week, designed to spark curiosity and inspire young people to explore the natural world – 22 – 28 June 2026 – Insect Week

Protecting nature starts with understanding it, and sometimes the smallest creatures make the biggest difference.