Innovative programme harnessing nature to be rolled out in Perthshire

A community company which harnesses the power of nature to improve physical and mental health has been awarded key funding to deliver its innovative programme in Perthshire.

Wild Workforce CIC was established in April this year with the aim of inspiring Green Health activity and learning in Tayside.

Green health, through connection with the natural environment, has been proven to reduce stress, improve mood and lower the risk of chronic disease.

Now, inspired by the company’s mission and aims, NHS Tayside Charitable Foundation has granted financial support to enable 40 Green Health workshops to be delivered in Perthshire.

Benefitting from nature connectedness

Demand has already been so positive that further sessions are being explored, highlighting growing societal awareness of the positive impact nature connectedness can have on individuals.

Activities at the fun workshops will include bushcraft, movement for healthy aging, nature crafts, outdoor games, walking and mindful practices.

Sites identified thus far include the woodlands at Kinnoull Hill, Blairgowrie, the grounds of Perth Royal Infirmary and the city’s South Inch. The funding represents an important milestone for the community interest company.

Founder Clare Stephen is a passionate believer in the power of nature and the outdoors to improve health and resilience and is keen to see others benefit from Wild Workforce CIC’s approach.

“We are delighted that NHS Tayside have recognised the need for increased Green Health provision in Perthshire. The interest in the workshops has been just brilliant,” she said.

“We can now support and measure impact with different groups including staff teams, adult mental health services and young people. The workshops are cost effective and help people feel good - so it would be fantastic to extend the project with additional funding.”

Providing Green Health for all

One of the groups already committed to the workshops is the staff at Perth and Kinross charity, PKAVS, which helps thousands of people across the region each year.

Chief Executive Shaheena Din said: "PKAVS is delighted to be partnering with Wild Workforce CIC as part of our ongoing journey to nurture a healthier, more compassionate, and supportive workplace.

“At PKAVS, our values are at the heart of everything we do, and we believe that wellbeing starts from within. After all, if we want our community in Perth & Kinross to thrive, it begins with looking after our own people."

NHS Tayside Charitable Foundation, which has provided the grant, supports applications to its innovation and prevention funds, with a mission to help people live better and longer.

Charity Chief Officer, Shelley McCarthy, said: “We’re delighted to support Wild Workforce in their inspiring work.

At NHS Tayside Charitable Foundation, we believe in the power of connection with nature to support mental health and wellbeing, and this partnership reflects our shared commitment to creating healthier, more resilient communities.”

To find out about Wild Workforce CIC, visit: www.wildworkforce.com