Nature & Wellbeing Project in Somerset

For the last 4.5 years I have had the pleasure of working on this absolute dream of a project. I have really enjoyed supporting two sectors (health and nature/conservation) to come together, to learn from each other in order to develop nature based health interventions that have encouraged people to manage their own wellbeing by connecting with natural environments locally to them.

"I come away feeling content and very happy, like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders. It’s given me confidence to do other things too - it’s acted like a snowball effect.”

Quote from participant

The overwhelmingly positive response we had from partners and participants has demonstrated the natural, intrinsic need people have to connect with nature, to help us feel our best. This project has allowed us to spend time encouraging partners in both sectors to continue to develop, shape and share this idea, inclusively, with communities in Somerset, focusing on reaching out to those who may struggle most to access such opportunities. In doing this, we are also encouraged people to spend more time outside, caring and giving back to natural environments and landscapes that are so important to our communities.

Across the 3 AONBs

2345 people engaged in the project 216 people took part in formal training

515 sessions taken place 10 volunteers regularly supporting the project

What Next