The nature enthusiast
Jane Howard, 57, a teacher and caregiver from Brighton, first discovered The Grow Project after taking one of its wellbeing courses. Working with people experiencing a range of mental health conditions, Grow helps people improve wellbeing by connecting them with the healing powers of nature.
Grow came along at a time of my life when things were particularly challenging, and because mental health and wellbeing is a cause that’s important to me for personal reasons, I decided to apply for one of their courses.
Everything about Grow and the work it does really appealed to me. I adored the fact we were getting out and about in the great outdoors, plus I loved the focus on personal wellness. And because the course was so varied, I acquired a completely new skill set in a safe and nurturing environment.
I enjoyed my experience so much that I wanted to give something back, so eventually I became part of the team as a volunteer, working for one day a week.
We work mainly with people experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, plus other mental health conditions and, in partnership with the National Trust, we help participants reconnect with nature through a range of activities including conservation, walking, crafts and meditation.
Twelve people are involved in each group, and we spend most of our time based at Saddlescombe Farm learning animal handling, gardening skills or other farm-based pursuits. Other weeks might be spent helping out at other local projects.
I’m also very active in helping with The Grow Project’s fundraising events. I’ve taken part in a sponsored walk, and at Christmas I made soup for more than 100 people as part of our Winter Warmer guided walk across the South Downs.
Volunteering with Grow has given me a sense of purpose and I’ve made some good friendships through the project.
For more information about The Grow Project, visit growingwellbeing.org.uk
“I love being in the great outdoors”