Sophie Hughes
Case Studies from participants
Below are case studies from participants who graduated from the programme
“I joined the programme from an advertisement on the Cheshire Wildlife Trust Website. I wasn’t really happy in my unfulfilling job and was struggling with my mental health.”
She decided to join the course as she needed some headspace and support not wanting to worry friends and family too much with her mental health. She liked the idea of being guided into mindfulness, as it was something she had already looked into. Also with an existing love for nature, this element of the course was a bonus and made her feel comfortable.
During the course, as well as helping nature, participants were encouraged to work on their goals, following this Sarah got back into an old hobby. “I have always enjoyed drawing but struggled over the past few years to balance and fit in in. As part of my self care I’ve been getting back into it and absolutely loving it! I have also found it very helpful to reduce my anxiety. “
“Going forward, after the course, I am going to prioritise self-care as I know how much this has helped me and my mindset. I am so happy I joined the course this year, it has had a such an impact and Iloved the outdoor ‘messy’ tasks on the course and of course helping nature.”
Rachel handing out certificates c. Sophie Huges
“The job centre told me about this course, following a long stint being unemployed, I has lost my way and purpose.”
She decided to join the course as she needed some structure in her day and it ‘sounded a bit different’ to other courses. She said she dabbled in gardening but nature wasn’t a big part of her life. When she joined the course. JP took part in the activities with growing enthusiasm and week by week became more confident to share feelings and ideas with the group.
“The programme gave me a reason to leave the house, you know you should but sometimes it makes someone to encourage you. The course leader did that. In future, I am looking forward to including more mindful walking in my life. I will take the time to take my headphones out and listen to the birds and the sounds of nature, to feel more connected and calmer. I have loved talking to people from different walks of life and the sessions have helped with my social anxiety. I am so looking forward to being out and about now, it has re-ignited a joy for nature and noticing the small things. I know in future I can use nature to help my wellbeing. “
“ I personally feel the programmes on offer by Cheshire Wildlife Trust are incredibly important as they encourage people from different backgrounds to come together and mix in a social environment. The customers I work with are neuro diverse and have a variety of health conditions. The online & in person courses on offer from CWT allow people to mix within a safe space in a small group and this allows them to develop confidence and skills creating items that can be used in green spaces. My customers have spoken very highly of the course and is has encouraged them to go on to consider further voluntary opportunities.
One particular customer joined the course lacking confidence due to previous bad experiences in the work place. She loved the course and as a result has decided to look at further opportunities. She has also progressed into part time work and I believe her time with CWT was a big part of building her self- confidence and self-esteem so thank you.”