Wellbeing in the woods

“It feels like we are building a community of people – connecting and networking. There is such a fantastic range of people that come to these events, it’s somewhere to go and forget about the outside world for a bit.”

Elemental Adventures CIC offer outdoor play and learning, providing opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to connect with each other and the natural world.

They received a grant towards their Wellbeing in the Woods sessions where people gather together in the woodland to socialise, learn heritage crafts, listen to stories, sing and play.

Wellbeing in the Woods sessions have provided these sessions free of charge to low-income families, offering an opportunity they otherwise may not have had to take part in intergenerational activities such as weaving, woodcraft and foraging.

These sessions have had a positive effect on attendees’ physical and mental health and have helped to improve social connection and reduce isolation.

Hanna, a Wellbeing in the Woods attendee said:

I definitely notice the difference it has on my mental health after being in the woodland – I always feel so much better, happier and more grounded. Getting to speak and connect with other people makes me feel like I am not so alone.”