At Kingswood Trust, we know that spending time in nature can have a powerful impact on wellbeing. Through our Nature Connections programme funded by The National Lottery Community Fund for people aged 65 and over, we have seen first-hand how outdoor experiences can help tackle loneliness, improve mental and physical health, and bring people together.
Isolation and loneliness remain significant challenges for many older people, particularly those living with disabilities or caring responsibilities. That’s why Nature Connections focuses on creating welcoming opportunities for people to connect with others while enjoying the benefits of the natural world.
Building Partnerships, Building Communities
A key part of the programme’s success has been the strong partnerships we have developed with local organisations, including the Alzheimer’s Society and All Age Carers. Through collaboration with community groups, care homes, libraries, GP surgeries, and support organisations, we have been able to reach both returning participants and those joining us for the first time.
Our dedicated volunteers have also played a vital role in supporting activities and helping participants feel welcome and included.
Experiences that Bring Nature to Life
Nature Connections offers a wide range of activities designed to be accessible, enjoyable, and beneficial for all abilities.
Participants have enjoyed:
- Wheelchair-accessible woodland walks
- Pond dipping and bird watching
- Exploring the Music Trail
- Sensory activities and nature-based games
- Animal encounters with sheep, ducks, chickens, rabbits, guinea pigs, and tortoises
- Intergenerational events with local school children
- Visits to our historical sites, including the WWII Air Raid Shelters
Alongside outdoor adventures, participants have also taken part in creative activities inspired by nature, including lavender bag making, aroma jars, origami, sewing, Zentangle art, and seasonal crafts. Social time over tea, cake, and shared meals has provided further opportunities to connect, while campfire sessions with marshmallow toasting and whittling have created lasting memories.
The Difference We Are Making
The positive impact of Nature Connections is reflected in the feedback we receive from participants.
- 100% felt able to join in activities
- 95% reported feeling less isolated
- 100% enjoyed spending time with other people
- 97.5% said they had opportunities to talk, connect, and share memories
During the second year of the project, 852 people took part through 28 partner organisations. Outreach through libraries and GP surgeries also helped an additional 125 individuals access the programme, many attending alongside a family member or carer.
The programme was supported by an impressive 221 volunteer hours contributed by people aged 65+ and work experience students, creating valuable intergenerational connections.
More Than Just a Day Out
While participants benefit from physical activity through walking and exploring natural environments, the impact goes much deeper. Nature Connections creates a relaxed and supportive space where people can build friendships, share experiences, and feel part of a community.
Many participants tell us they leave feeling refreshed by the fresh air, seasonal changes, and peaceful surroundings. The opportunity to talk, reminisce, and spend time with others helps reduce feelings of loneliness and supports positive mental wellbeing.
Perhaps the strongest measure of success is the number of people who return again and again. Many participants have expressed a strong desire to come back, highlighting the lasting positive impact that connecting with nature, and with each other, can have.
Thanks to the National Lottery Players, as we continue to grow the programme, we remain committed to helping older people experience the benefits of nature, friendship, and community, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to feel connected, valued, and supported.