A programme aimed at supporting people with mental health issues in Argyll and Bute has won £150,000 funding over the next two years.
Argyll and the Isles Coast and Countryside Trust’s (ACT) delivers woodland-based programmes of outdoor activities, to help participants overcome mental health issues caused by loneliness, isolation, and stigma.
Developed by Scottish Forestry and delivered by ACT, the Branching Out programme supports residents referred locally from NHS Community Mental Health teams through 12 weekly sessions of supported activities.
Each session is a 5-hour day in the woods in all weathers and can include building shelters, green woodworking, bush craft, tool use, conservation activities, gentle exercise, cooking on campfires and environmental art.
Nathalie Moriarty, for Scottish Forestry said: “We are delighted that this amazing programme has again won funding support to help maintain its momentum in Argyll.”
