Joey the Swan, as known by the Wistaston locals, is an attractive parkland with ancient trees, wildflower gardens planted by volunteers and a winding stream. This community green space has a playground, fields for sports and a good-sized woodland with plenty of paths.  

Over the next year you can spot our volunteers there learning more about nature and enjoying moments of mindfulness. Mastering ways to improve their wellbeing through Nature Connection around the fire. Or even appreciating the beauty of the woods, listening to the relaxing bird song or the noisy woodpecker tapping away. 

The wellbeing sessions also have a focus on improving physical and mental wellness through volunteering – one of the five pathways to wellbeing. There are lots of activities to do, including making bird feeders for the wide variety of birds in the woods. Clearing what felt like, never ending brambles. Removing weeds in the bluebell patches so they could shine through for everyone to enjoy. There was even did a spot of litter picking, helping to structure the new wild area and caring for the new pond. 

When talking about the sessions afterwards Gill said she enjoyed getting outside with a lovely group of people and realising “I am part of the nature all around me and am more connected to it than I thought.” Ann also enjoyed being in a group and loved that everyone got on so well, she learnt so much more about wildlife and is looking forward to doing more for it in the future.  

It’s Mental Health Awareness week from 9-15th May. If you’d like to join us to improve your wellbeing,  we have lots of Nature Connection programs on offer this throughout the year. Click here to get involved.