Connecting Carers with Nature: How Your Support Makes a Difference
Last week, thanks to the generosity of our Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum (FOWA) members, we were able to help fund transport for a very special wellbeing day at Westonbirt Arboretum. The session, run by the Learning Team in partnership with Carers Support Centre, brought together local carers for four hours of nature connection, creativity, and respite.
Why does this matter?
Carers often dedicate so much time and energy to supporting others that they rarely get a chance to pause and care for themselves. This event offered exactly that—a meaningful break in a beautiful setting, guided by the principles of the Five Ways to Wellbeing and the Five Pathways to Nature Connection.
The day began with a mindful walk through the arboretum, encouraging participants to use all their senses: listening to birdsong, feeling the textures of leaves and noticing the beauty of winter trees. Along the way, carers learned fascinating tree facts and folklore, visited the bird hide to watch wildlife, and shared reflections on how nature made them feel.
After lunch in the Learning Centre, the group enjoyed eco-friendly craft activities: making festive decorations from recycled materials, edible wreaths for birds, memory clay ornaments, and leaf lanterns.
What carers told us:
The feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Here are just a few of the comments that stood out:
“Pure escapism from day-to-day caring. Really improved my low mood, I feel energised.”
“During the activities I was able to ‘switch off’ a little from my commitments. The compassion shown from the staff helped me feel valued.”
“Lightened my mood from feeling low yesterday.”
“It was a good change from the usual routine. I felt relaxed and energetic.”
Every single participant said they would like to attend similar activities in the future. Many reported feeling more relaxed, uplifted and better able to cope with the challenges of caring.
By supporting FOWA, you help make days like this possible. Your membership contributions fund vital elements, such as transport, that remove barriers and allow carers to experience the wellbeing benefits of nature. These sessions offer a day out where carers can experience connection, learning, and a sense of being cared for.
Thank you for helping us share the restorative power of Westonbirt Arboretum with those who need it.