20 Aug 2024
Since December 2023, the NPT team have been working hard to deliver a wide range of woodland wellbeing and improvement activities across our sites, funded by UK Government.
We use outdoor settings to work alongside communities and improve access to nature-based activities that develop new skills, boost mental wellbeing and support people to improve their local woodlands for the future. Part of this project has seen us work alongside Craig Gwladys Country Park team and the ‘Friends of' Group in creating new pathways, sheltered areas for activities and a compostable toilet - all of which are accessible.
Our Woodland Management and Engagement Officer, Richard, saw the benefits of engaging members of the public in the process of developing the site, and decided to approach a local school and create a regular volunteer group. The school attended 3 of the sessions, and helped to create a group shelter by gathering building materials from the woodland. The children were able to develop their understanding of woodland management, health and safety and tool use. They really enjoyed taking part in the construction of the shelter, which developed a wide range of practical skills and left them with improved levels of emotional wellbeing.
The volunteer group attracted a wide range of people with varying skills, experiences and needs. Running from June until September with between 10 – 14 participants each week, this dedicated bunch have worked really hard to dig holes and set posts, clear invasive species from the site and learn carpentry and construction skills to build floors, walls and a roof. In addition to this, the group make a weekly meal on the open fire so that they can spend time eating and reflecting at the end of each session. There has been a lot of love for creating something tangible and some of the group have already brought family and friends to the site to show off their work.
Richard hopes that by encouraging local people to be an active part of this process, they have seen many benefits, including a new found appreciation for nature, better understanding of accessibility and feelings of worth and improved confidence - “I can’t believe that we did that” as one volunteer was overheard exclaiming!
Work on the area is still ongoing, but there are plans for an event upon completion, where everyone involved can celebrate their achievements. We're looking forward to this site being able to offer its extensive range of activities to everyone in the community.
