Nature Works engages young people in a range of nature-based therapeutic practices and offers opportunities to take action to protect our planet – and feel hopeful for its future.

People of all ages say they get a great deal out of being outdoors. Spending time in beautiful, tranquil places is in itself very calming and stress-reducing. Alongside this, trying new things, gaining new skills and learning ways to relax in the outdoors can be hugely uplifting and provide an invaluable opportunity to improve our confidence, self esteem and resilience.

Since the Coronavirus pandemic, many people have been able to experience the therapeutic power of being outdoors. We are interacting with nature in every moment, from the air we breathe, to the food we eat. Nature is always supporting us, providing us with clean air, inspiring us with its beauty, encouraging us to connect with the landscape. At Nature Works, we want to offer young people a multitude of different ways to connect with nature.

Groups

Bridge to Nature – A 7 week group created in collaboration with Avon Gorge Wildlife Project. Join us as we discover the Avon Gorge, take inspiration from the surroundings and design a piece of street art to be exhibited in the City.
This group is for 19-25 years olds.
Register your interest at the top of the page.

Drop ins

Nature Works in the City

In this group we bring nature indoors and find out how to connect with nature in the city. Some of the things you might do include indoor gardening, crafting, making foraged snacks, arty stuff and games. It’s also a space to chat about whatever you feel like and get to know other young people. Ages: 15-25

⏰ Mondays 4:30pm-6:30pm
📍 1-2 Perry Road, BS1 5BQ

Any questions? Contact either Olivia or Elsie: olivia@otrbristol.org.uk & elsie@otrbristol.org.uk or sign up at the pink button.

1:1 Therapy

Nature Works Therapy – Spending time in beautiful, tranquil places is in itself calming and stress-reducing and gives us more energy. Some young people find it helpful to be able to process their feelings while walking or sitting alongside a therapist in nature and talking. Nature Works offers therapy for young people aged between 11-18 who may be struggling with their mental health, and want to foster a connection to nature. We work with nature to support the therapy process. You will be signed up to a therapist who works outdoors, with the aim of meeting with them regularly over a period of 6-8 weeks.
Sign up here.

A pair of hands pinching a purple and green leaf.

Two people pointing to an elderflower tree.

A person decanting elderflower juice into glass bottles.

A large stainless-steel bowl cooking over a log fire.

A makeshift scarecrow looms behind a potato plant.

A close up of tomato leaves, growing against thread.

"I loved axing wood the most - at first I couldn’t do it but I kept trying and now I am really good"

"Exploring Boiling Wells was really exciting, especially sleeping in a tent. It was my first night away from home but everyone made me feel safe"

"Usually it is hard for me to wake her up, but every morning she was up before me! Meeting new people has given her a massive confidence boost and she is much more open minded when trying new things"

Parent

"This is the best thing I’ve ever done! I joined a nature works course in the first lockdown and it’s changed my life completely. Also the continuation group is amazing and full of like-minded people I’m so happy to be a part of it!"