Roots to Wellbeing
Roots to Wellbeing at Bilston Urban Village Nature Reserve
Funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), Roots to Wellbeing is a community-focused project designed to transform Bilston Urban Village Nature Reserve into a welcoming, well-used green space that supports health, wellbeing, and social connection. Located in the heart of Bilston South Ward, Wolverhampton, the reserve plays an important role in bringing people together and creating a safer, more resilient community.
The project aims to remove barriers that can prevent people from accessing health and wellbeing support, using nature as a setting for positive change. Through a programme of activities, workshops, and information sessions, Roots to Wellbeing promotes healthy lifestyles, mental wellbeing, and greater awareness of issues such as antisocial behaviour. We work in partnership with local schools, community groups, and the local police to encourage positive use of the reserve and build a shared sense of responsibility and price in the space.
Volunteering opportunities are a key part of the project, offering local people – including young people – the chance to get involved, learn new skills, and continue to take care of the reserve. By connecting residents, organisations, and services, Roots to Wellbeing helps bridge communities and ensures Bilston Urban Village Nature Reserve remains a safe, inclusive, and valued green space.
Case Study
When Tommy first joined us as a conservation volunteer, he was quiet and reserved, unsure of how he would fit in. Over the weeks, however, his confidence blossomed as he became a valued member of the team.
Currently preparing to return to university for his second year studying Marine Biology, Tommy has discovered that volunteering not only benefits nature and local communities but also plays a huge role in personal growth.
One of the most rewarding parts of the experience for Tommy was meeting like-minded people. While he admits socialising isn’t always easy for him, he found that working alongside others towards a common goal made it much easier to connect.
Through taking part in a wide range of conservation tasks and teamwork, Tommy has grown in both skill and self-assurance. His journey shows how volunteering can help young people explore their passions and develop confidence that will support them in their studies and beyond.
When you sometimes struggle with socialising, it really helps to have a shared interest with people, like volunteering, because you all know why you’re there.
Our impact so far:
45
volunteering opportunities
277
people reached (52% under the age of 18)
6
collaborative events
84
bridging communities together events
4
workshops aimed at raising awareness around antisocial behaviour
I was a bit nervous before coming as I was attending on my own and I even had second thoughts, but I am so glad I did attend because you and the team were lovely and it was nice to have a good chat whilst crafting
The fact that this was free for local people to attend was brilliant… cost not to be barrier is just amazing
Volunteering and giving back to my community gives a feeling of fulfilment
Get Involved
Follow Bilston Urban Village Nature Reserve on Facebook to hear about upcoming sessions!