Woodland Wellbeing at Leslands Farm is a not-for-profit initiative on the outskirts of Barrow, dedicated to improving mental health, reducing isolation, and enhancing overall wellbeing through engagement with nature. The organisation recognises the profound benefits of spending time in woodland settings and strives to create opportunities for individuals to reconnect with the nature and other people.

A key aim of Woodland Wellbeing is to reduce isolation, particularly among vulnerable groups of adults such as individuals experiencing poverty, with mental health challenges, and those experiencing social exclusion. By offering group activities, workshops, and guided sessions with a highly skilled and experienced Social Work trained professional and several volunteers, the CIC will foster a sense of community and encourage meaningful connections between participants. This social interaction helps combat loneliness and provides a supportive environment for personal growth, healing and a connection to others.

Improving mental health and wellbeing is another central focus of the initiative. Studies have shown that spending time in nature can significantly reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Woodland Wellbeing will harness these benefits by offering mindfulness sessions, woodland experiences, and therapeutic activities designed to promote emotional resilience and relaxation. These programs help participants manage mental health challenges in a nurturing and tranquil setting, building trust, confidence and self-esteem through co-production.

Ultimately, Woodland Wellbeing at Leslands is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive space where individuals can grow and thrive through meaningful connections with nature and each other. By promoting mental health, reducing loneliness, and enhancing overall wellbeing thus playing a vital role in fostering healthier, happier communities.

The organisation aims to increase overall wellbeing by encouraging physical activity and engagement with the outdoors.

Activities iclude:

• growing initiatives in the polytunnel and raised beds
• conservation tasks such as litter picking in the local area and nearby beach
•  nature-based crafts such as up-cycling items to sell, making bird boxes, wind chimes, necklaces from fallen trees and making 'Poo, fire bricks' (courtesy of the resident pony and alpaca), all to generate an income
• There are also indoor activities such as mindfulness, health and wellbeing sessions, jewellery, candle making, aromatherapy essential oil gifts and several other relaxing and enjoyable workshops with a focus on improving health and a sense of community
• There will be opportunities for one to one or group sessions, discussions, guest speakers and outreach support

Future plans include providing opportunities to re-introduce people to gentle, guided exercise in a well-equipped gym shed in the woods (with professional supervision), aimed at boosting both physical and mental health. Exposure to fresh air, natural light, and the calming effects of a woodland environment will further contribute to enhanced wellbeing and vitality.

Beyond these core aims, Woodland Wellbeing at Leslands supports personal development and skill-building. By engaging in hands-on activities such as growing nutritious food, developing sustainable living practices, and learning more about our environment, participants gain new skills, confidence, and a sense of achievement. These experiences can be particularly beneficial for individuals seeking a renewed sense of purpose or those looking to reconnect with the community, volunteer or return to work after a period of isolation.