Innovation Fund helps support Wellbeing in Nature sessions for socially isolated men

The Devon Mental Health Alliance Innovation Fund has been awarded to Hakeford Woods by our Community Mental Health Development Leads in North Devon.

The Wellbeing in Nature project is aimed at improving men's mental health. It has already had an impact on participants across the area, providing a safe and supportive environment for men to connect with nature and one another.

The project, run by Hakeford Woods Forest School, takes place on the outskirts of Barnstaple. Participants meet weekly for a range of activities designed to provide a sense of achievement and build confidence and self-esteem. The aim is to provide a space for men to take a break from their everyday lives, connect with nature, and build supportive relationships.

One of the key benefits of the project is the opportunity for men to spend time in nature. Research has shown that spending time in nature can have a positive impact on mental health, reducing feelings of anxiety and depression, and improving your overall wellbeing. The woodland setting of Wellbeing in Nature provides a peaceful and calming environment for participants, allowing them to take a break from the stresses of daily life. This project provides a safe and supportive environment for men to share their experiences and support one another. Participants at the sessions have reported feeling more connected and relaxed as a result of the project, as well has having lifted moods directly following a session.

Some of the feedback from the initial few sessions has included one participant reporting that, “It was a great session. I enjoyed having flexibility to do different woodland activities.” Another commented that, “I managed to speak to guys, which I do not do on a daily basis. That alone was special to me.”

Wellbeing in Nature is a fantastic example of the positive impact that community-based projects can have on mental health by providing a safe and supportive environment for men to be in nature and spend time with others.