Branching out

Supported by City of Culture Green Futures programme, Coventry City Council, The National Lottery Community Fund, Severn Trent Community Fund and The National Lottery Heritage Fund

Woodland Wellbeing sessions for adults who have a neurodiverse diagnosis (or are exploring a diagnosis) including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Attention Deficit Disorder, Dyspraxia, Dyslexia, Tourette’s Syndrome, ASD/ASC and Dyscalculia

WhenWednesdays 1pm – 3pm October, November and December 2021
WhereWyken Croft Nature Park, meet at main gate on Wyken Croft, Coventry CV2 3AE (opposite Blackberry Lane)
WithKerry, Sadie and Angela from The Starfish Collaborative
WhatCreative wellbeing sessions in the woods including woodland photography, creative bird feeders, planting bulbs for spring, recording nature sounds, willow weaving, nature clay gift making

Access – The sessions were free, specifically designed to be accessible and welcoming, providing physical and mental space for every group member to take things at their own pace and attend the sessions on their own terms.

SupportWe wanted to make sure participants felt safe, comfortable and cared for when they came to the sessions. In order for us to achieve this care we actively encouraged participants to let us know any health conditions/disabilities/access needs .

Prior to attending sessions participants received 121 support with Kerry to explore any specific needs they may have in relation to the sessions (including spatial, sensory, social, physical and mental) and a Support Needs Plan was created for each individual so they could feel safe and their needs were understood.

Activity – Workshop sessions were an opportunity for participants to explore a variety of creative approaches whilst also discovering how their physical and mental health can be enhanced through connecting with nature, creativity and other neurodivergent people in your community.

Timetable

We understand that there may be some of the sessions you can’t make so please let us know about these when you chat with us.

Wednesday 6th October Taster Session – come along and visit the Nature Park, have a drink and a biscuit and find out more about Branching Out
Wednesday 13th October  Woodland Photography
Wednesday 20th October  Creative Bird Houses
Wednesday 3rd  November  Planting for the future
Wednesday 10th November  Woodland sound recording
Wednesday 17th November  Willow Weaving
Wednesday 24th November  Nature Clay gifts
Wednesday 1st  December  Fallow time and Rest
Wednesday 8th  December  Creative Affirmations


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long will each session be? Sessions last 2 hours.

How many people will be in a session with me? We are keeping the groups small with a maximum of 10 people per session.

What if the weather is wet? We have event shelters at the ready if the weather is wet so don’t let that stop you coming!

Are there any toilets? Unfortunately there is no toilet at the Nature Park.

What do I need to do to prepare? Just bring yourself, wear shoes that keep your feet dry, warm clothes including a coat. We will provide all of the resources and equipment you need for the sessions

Is there somewhere I will be able to sit? We have chairs at the sessions and hammocks if you want to relax!

I have a disability/health condition/access needs which may prevent me from attending, is additional access support available? 

Yes, as mentioned above under Support – We want to make sure you feel safe, comfortable and cared for when you come to the sessions. In order for us to achieve this care we need to know about your needs so we actively encourage you to let us know any health conditions/disabilities/access needs you have.

Prior to attending sessions Kerry will chat with you to explore any specific needs you may have in relation to the sessions (including spatial, sensory, social, physical and mental) so you can feel safe and your needs are understood.

How will I get there? There is local parking if you are driving, and also a bus route. We can help you with planning your journey.

Can you pay for my travel? Unfortunately we can’t cover any travel costs.

Where do we meet? We will meet at the main gate on Wyken Croft (opposite Blackberry Lane)

I may feel nervous and like someone I know to come with me is that ok? Yes if you would like someone you know to come with you to support you then they are welcome to come, please let us know in advance if you are bringing someone with you.

Can I bring my children or my dog? Unfortunately, we can’t have any children or pets at the sessions for health & safety reasons. If you require the support of a trained assistance animal – please let us know. 

Will I need to bring food? The session time is 1 – 3 and there will be free hot and cold drinks, biscuits and fruit if you do get hungry, but if you need to eat other food during this time please bring it with you.