Community Rehabilitation Service launches Forest Fridays

The Community Rehabilitation Service has launched a pilot of forest wellbeing sessions with the Forest of Avon Trust. Forest Fridays offer people using the BMH service the opportunity to take part in activities in a forest over an eight week period.

Up to twelve people spend an afternoon in Splatts Abbey Wood in North Bristol every Friday, where they learn mindfulness, bush craft skills, conservation skills and a range of woodland arts and crafts. The group have even made nettle fritters and nettle tea!

"Being out in nature has a positive impact on mental health and wellbeing. Forest Fridays are a good way for group members to connect with each other too," says Nicky Noble, Occupational Therapist with the Community Rehabilitation Service.

The service plans to evaluate the pilot and hopes to run further forest activity sessions in the future.