Nature Works is a project focusing on engaging young people in a range of nature-based therapeutic practices. We are working with a number of partner organisations to deliver a broad range of groups, camps and drop ins that promote wellbeing, whilst also offering 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 ground ourselves in the outdoors can be hugely uplifting and provide an invaluable opportunity to improve our confidence, self esteem and resilience.

We have teamed up with the New Roots Garden, to develop our nature based work. This is a beautiful green oasis in the middle of the city. It was founded over 10 years ago by a group of volunteers as a community garden and is still run by volunteers to this day. Over the years it has acted as a safe space for many groups, particularly refugees and asylum seekers.

New Roots Garden (13-25 year olds)

The best way to begin your involvement with Nature Work will be to attend one of our sessions at the New Roots Garden. This will run every Tuesday come rain or shine between 4-7pm. This is based just off Speedwell Road and can easily be reached by number 7 bus from the city centre or Church Road. Expect to meet regular and experienced OTR staff and volunteers in a relaxed and friendly environment.

Activities you can expect will be as varied as pizza making and natural building to mindfulness practices and vegetable growing, pickling and preserving. Equally just being in the outdoors, round a fire, with a cuppa, is also very much encouraged. No previous experience needed whatsoever!

Entrance gate between 44-46 Speedwell Road, Bristol BS5 7SB. Bus route 7 stops opposite the site – which is also close to the Bristol to Bath cycle path! View on map: