Suffolk Wildlife Trust and Suffolk Mind organise project

People using Suffolk Mind’s Waves service have been visiting Suffolk Wildlife Trust’s Martlesham Wilds offering a peaceful setting to enjoy nature and speak about their wellbeing.

Kym Hackett, community services manager for Waves, said that the initiative known as Waves in the Wilds is helping those involved open up about their experiences.

She said: “As we walk alongside our clients in nature, we have been able to work in a different way to the normal group setting as client’s have opened up and shared their experiences and stories.

The Waves group at Martlesham Wilds (Image: Suffolk Mind)

“It has been amazing to clients looking around in childlike wonder as they’re connecting and learning about nature, enjoying the long walks, away from the stress and noise of daily life.

“We talk to people in group about the importance of being around nature to help support their mental health and emotional needs, so to have the opportunity to be able to give clients this opportunity has been fantastic.”

Dawn, who visited Martlesham Wilds as part of the project, praised it for the way it for the way it brought people together and encouraged them to talk to each other.

She said: “Waves in the Wild opened the door to a new therapy for me.

“It’s easier to walk and talk when you’re in an environment like this. It’s not all focused on you – it’s a different way of working.

“You can walk without it being so emotional and raw. It’s different.

“I suddenly realised I wasn’t churning a hundred thoughts around my head. I found peace and harmony in myself by noticing the world around me.

“The experience was informative, fun and something I would certainly do again.”

Another participant added: “The walk was relaxing and calm.

“My inner child felt free when with nature.”

The programme is only available to those who living with borderline personality disorder or emotionally unstable personality disorder.

It is a 12-week programme which helps participants to learn new skills to help manage and understand their diagnosis as well as building confidence and self-esteem.

In the spring further visits are also planned to Suffolk Wildlife Trust's Bradfield Woods nature reserve which was made possible by a successful application to the Suffolk & Essex Coast & Heaths’ Landscape for All Fund.

Charlie Zakss, engagement officer at Suffolk Wildlife Trust, added that the reserve offered hop to nature while at the same time offering hope to those taking part in the project.

“Nature is really struggling, and this reserve is like a beacon of hope.

“Suffolk Mind is a really nice fit to work with because everyone needs hope – and so does nature.

“Nature can recover, and nature can help you recover.”