Forest of Avon Trust

Health and Wellbeing programmes at the Forest of Avon

We recognise that nature isn't just a pretty backdrop; it's a healer, a stress-reliever, and a community builder. That’s why we run inclusive woodland activities which directly support people's mental and physical health.
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RCN 1122314

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Story

At Forest of Avon our mission is simple: to make sure everyone can easily access and enjoy the beauty and benefits of trees and woodlands in their community forest. That’s why we’ve been running health and wellbeing groups in local woodlands since 2011, designed to directly benefit people with mental and physical health needs and to support carers.

There’s strong evidence that nature-connection significantly reduces anxiety and improves mood. But that's not all—our programme also provides opportunities for social connection, peer support, learning new skills, creative expression and importantly, having fun! As well as nature supporting human health, research shows that having a strong sense of nature-connection encourages pro-environmental behaviour too.

Our experienced team of Health & Wellbeing Practitioners and volunteers bring these programmes to life, using Forest School principles and the NHS's Five Ways to Wellbeing: Be Active, Notice, Connect, Keep Learning, and Give Back.

We run groups for people within a community of experience. Our three main projects are:

- Woodland Wellbeing groups for people living with dementia and their family carers

- Forest Friday for people with complex and enduring mental health needs

- Woodland Wellbeing for people with learning disabilities

Our projects are commissioned by health and social care services or directly funded via grants and donations. With your help we can ensure that these projects continue to support people to connect with nature and each other into the future.

"It makes me feel more energised as it boosts my mental health. It helps me relax as there's other people around, it feels like a break." [family carer ]

"I find the group gives me a sense of purpose, I feel welcomed and the shared knowledge gives me hope." [Forest Friday participant]

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About the charity

Forest of Avon Trust

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RCN 1122314
Forest of Avon is delivering on 3 main priorities as set out in the Forest of Avon Plan and the Health and Wellbeing Strategy: • Creating new tree and woodland habitats • Caring for existing tree and woodland habitats • Offering health and Wellbeing activities in parks and woodlands

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