16/06/2026
This we want to shout about the important role Nature plays in Keeping us Healthy!🦋
Take it from our Project Participant Simon Cook:
“Seven years ago I was admitted to the acute ward of a psychiatric hospital. I had mental health and addiction problems. Upon discharge to the care of Community Mental Health Services I approached GDAS (Gwent Drug and Alcohol Service) for help with addiction and was referred on to the conservation and walking group.
Later I went along to Wild Health sessions with GWT having been referred through CMHT. These three groups went on to form Mind, Body and Soul.
Before I joined I was socially isolated, lacked confidence and had low self esteem. My time with this group has improved my physical and mental health and I have become more environmentally aware.
I can now identify many plants and trees (such as Yew) understanding their medicinal properties and traditional uses, and am familiar with many species of fungi. We have also seen adders, lizards and many species of birds on the walks! I have also been learning to identify different species of gall wasps such as spangle, marble and artichoke. There has been a physical challenge as well with walks up mountains such as Cadair Idris, Yr Wyddfa and Mynydd Du”
Regular engagement with the Wild Health Project has given me routine and structure in my week and instilled in me not only a sense of belonging and pride, but a profound interest and admiration for nature and wildlife.
It has helped to address social isolation, promoted mindfulness and improved my resilience making relapse much less likely.
Now I am helping co deliver sessions and very much more peer mentor than participant. I also volunteer for Blaenau Gwent Regeneration and Community Services, Cyfarthfa Foundation and Air Ambulance Abergavenny
