The Oak Tree project is a weekly nature-based wellbeing group for people of all genders aged 18 and over who are struggling with their mental health and with isolation.
Lee was experiencing difficulties with their mental health, and says they were looking "for anything that's going to help me.” It was a mental health worker who suggested the project, and the idea of spending time away from crowds, out in nature, was immediately appealing. “Go and hang out in the Arboretum, away from all the other humans... just escape for a couple of hours.”
Their first visit was unforgettable — quite literally marked by a fall while waiting for the minibus. “I tripped over that curb... hit the ground with one heck of a thud... even got gravel rash on my nose.” Despite this, Lee returned — and kept coming back. The project has since become central to their week: “Thursday is my day. It’s my escape day. If it disappeared, I’d probably have absolutely nothing.”
The social side hasn’t been easy — Lee is open about the challenges of communication: “I find socialising very difficult. I don't have connections with anybody outside, really.” But slowly, it’s become a space where they feel safe enough to open up. Over time, small connections have formed, and the group’s patience has made a lasting impact: “They know I'm quirky... but they do have the patience for that here.”
Sometimes it's nice if I'm sat on my own, that some people do actually come up and talk to me.
The Oak Tree Project provides a safe and supportive environment for participants to experience the mental health benefits of being active in the woods, learning new skills and connecting with nature and other people. For Lee, the nature and creative activities have been deeply therapeutic:
“It's inspired me to try new things...I actually bought myself a little carving set online. I've carved a mushroom or two.” The outdoor setting has become a source of peace and inspiration:
“I love coming to see all these trees... you just come and sit with your thoughts and soak up.”
While Lee still experiences major stressors that negatively impacts their mental health, the Oak Tree Project has provided something vital: consistency, safety, and a space to breathe. As Lee put it:
It was just that little shining light.
And now I’m doing this. I think I’d be lost without it.
Want to find out more about green social prescribing for mental health?
Visit Green Social Prescribing - National Academy for Social Prescribing | NASP
