3 Apr 2025
Imagine relocating from inner-city London to the Swansea Valley, only to be isolated from your peers due to being accused of a crime. This was the case for Michael*, a 17-year-old who found himself unable to engage with others at school or work, struggling with depression and unable to afford therapy.
Michael joined Coed Lleol’s 6-week Bushcraft & Survival skills programme; alongside other young people supported by Neath Port Talbot Youth Justice and Early Intervention team. Speaking with Gemma, our Senior Youth Engagement Officer, he shared how he felt isolated and depressed, waking up in a sweat every morning.
In partnership with NPT Youth Justice, we designed a programme focused on building self-actualisation, emotional regulation, and teamwork, helping these young people prepare for a return to education and develop their emotional wellbeing.
At first, Michael was unsure about the programme. He had no previous experience in the woods and joked, “I’m black, we don’t do this,” when tasked with setting up a shelter. However, by the end of the first session, he was visibly more relaxed, having set up a hammock and enjoyed the peace of the woods.
Over the following weeks, Michael learned various outdoor skills, including fire lighting, campfire cooking, and shelter building. He bonded with another participant from London over missing Morley's chicken shops, and together they cooked burgers and even planned how to make jollof rice over the campfire. This connection helped Michael rediscover his sense of belonging and identity.
By the end of the programme, Michael's transformation was evident. His confidence had grown, and he shared that he visits woodlands more and goes running around his local green to improve his health and well-being. He also forged lasting friendships during the programme. In the final session, Michael proudly delivered a speech: “We came here as people, but now we are woodland people.”
Gemma reflected on the success of the programme: “It has been such a pleasure to work with West Glamorgan RIF on this project for the past three years. This project has focused on targeting early intervention in mental health for children, young people, and families. Our sessions incorporate fun, skills, and the healing benefits of being in nature, which gives young people a sense of hope in what may otherwise feel like very chaotic and challenging times at home and/or in school. It's always amazing to see a new path opening for young people where they've previously felt alienated and disengaged in typical educational settings. The children and young people we work with are so resilient, and it doesn't take long for them to adapt to a completely new environment.”
We’re thrilled to announce that our work, funded by RIF, will continue into its fourth year, supporting young people in Neath Port Talbot and Swansea to build resilience, confidence, and a stronger connection to nature. While Gemma is on maternity leave, Sophie, our Woodland Management and Engagement Project Officer, will take over, and we look forward to continuing this important work.
Take a look at some photos and videos from last year - Coed Lleol/Small Woods Youth
*name has been changed
