The Calderdale early intervention in psychosis team received £130 of funding to create nature based sessions specifically designed for neurodivergent service users.
After listening to suggestions from service users, the team organised a range of engaging outdoor activities delivered by a facilitator specialising in neurodiversity and special educational needs.
The project offered a variety of experiences, giving service users the chance to spend time in nature, take part in horse handling, enjoy goat walking and practise simple mindfulness techniques.
The sessions provided a relaxed environment that helped service users engage more comfortably than in traditional settings and have provided noticeable improvements in service users mood, confidence, and motivation.
Julie Metcalf, volunteer and workplace development worker shared the impact the sessions have had “The feedback has been really positive. One service user found so much joy in helping with the horses that they’ve been inspired to return to horse riding lessons.
“Another joined a session after experiencing several difficult days; his mood lifted significantly, and he shared that the session had really helped him.”
