Improving wellbeing
We are committed to improving mental wellbeing, reducing social isolation and strengthening community cohesion by helping people build meaningful connections and a greater sense of belonging.
We create opportunities for people to improve their health and wellbeing by connecting with others and with nature, building supportive relationships, overcoming barriers and developing the confidence and resilience to live well.
Featured Projects
James’ Story
Stockport
James was referred to Groundwork’s green social prescribing project from Pennine Care’s Early Intervention Team after suffering from mental health issues.
For James, the gardening programme offered a chance to rebuild confidence after spending five months in the hospital. “Gardening was completely new to me,” he admits. “When I started, I wasn’t long out of hospital, and being in a social environment outside the ward was nerve-racking at first. But it turned out to be really, really good.”
James’ journey with the project also deepened his bond with Michael, a fellow patient he’d befriended on the ward. “We just got on really well,” James recalls. “We used to play pool together in the hospital, and now it’s become our weekly ritual to keep doing that.” James was the one who introduced Michael to the gardening group, and they’ve supported each other throughout the experience. “We’d go to the sessions together, grab a McDonald’s on the way, and eventually, once I was driving again, it became a routine we looked forward to.”
The variety of green social prescribing activities kept James engaged and excited to return each week. “One week, it would be basket making, then wreath making, or even starting a fire. There was always something new to look forward to. And the group was so welcoming and supportive—it made you want to keep coming back.” Spending time outdoors also became a refreshing change of pace. “After so long in a hospital ward, being out in nature felt like a new lease on life,” James says. “It made me feel good to be outside, doing nice things, and connecting with others.”
The programme has had a lasting impact on James. He’s since joined other Groundwork volunteering days and feels more confident getting involved in hands-on activities. “I’ve still got my hyacinth from one of the sessions – it smells amazing!” Beyond practical skills, James says the experience has helped him transition back into everyday life, including a phased return to work. “It gave me the confidence to be in collaborative environments again. If I could do this, I thought, why not go back to my job?”
Looking back, James is grateful for the unique opportunity the programme provided. “When I first heard about it, I wasn’t sure what to expect – digging holes didn’t sound like something I’d be into. But once I got involved, I realized how fantastic it was. It’s been a really supportive environment, with great people and activities that have made such a difference to my mental health.”
Janet’s Story
Manchester
Janet has lived near Moston Brook in Manchester for more than 20 years. Throughout that time, the paths within the nature reserve have never been fully accessible. Narrow, uneven and often difficult to navigate, they prevented Janet from exploring the park independently on her mobility scooter.
After periods of bad weather, the paths would become muddy and waterlogged. Even during the summer months, exposed tree roots, loose stones and uneven ground made them challenging to use.
As part of the Resilient River Valleys project, Groundwork installed a 900-metre Flexi-Pave pathway at Moston Brook. The new path has transformed accessibility for residents like Janet, enabling them to enjoy the nature reserve more easily and safely, while also providing local children with a secure alternative route to school.
“I think it (the path) has been fantastic for people with wheelchairs and scooters like myself. And I have seen far more people with disabilities using the path, which is really good.”
Janet mentioned that she speaks to more of her neighbours now because “more and more people have been using the new pathway to walk their dogs, and it has been great to socialise and meet new people.”
“It is absolutely superb to be able to use the extension to the pathway. It has made such a difference to my life. To be able to come out every day for a lovely walk, and have this woodland area now available to us.”
