In a new collaboration with The Wild Mind Project, we are running a series of workshops for local 16-25 year-olds who identify as LGBTQ+. Small groups will be invited to share experiences in confidence whilst participating in gardening and creative activities in the Kitchen Garden.
Part of Growing Together at Chiswick House, our new community participation programme generously funded by the Linbury Trust, The Wild Mind Project aims to improve wellbeing and mental health for young LGBTQ+ people living in the London Borough of Hounslow.
Berny Simcox, CEO and Founder of The Wild Mind Project, a not-for-profit Community Interest Company who run creative and nature-based activities for young people, said “We know how tough it can be for the young LGBTQ+ community, and Covid-19 has made it even worse. We’re delighted to be partnering with Chiswick House & Gardens to provide a private and calming space where groups can share feelings and experiences with others in a similar situation.”
The two-hour sessions, run weekly over the course of a four-week programme, will include mindful walks immersed in nature, plus participation in conservation work or gardening, combined with creative workshops and a chat.
Simcox believes that nature can really help especially combined with creative activities which give young people the chance to express themselves without judgment.
Harvinder Bahra, our newly appointed Community Participation Manager said “Through our Growing Together programme we are building partnerships with community groups such as The Wild Mind Project in order to reach local people who are either underrepresented or face social, economic, emotional and physical barriers to engaging with organisations like ours.”
The Wild Mind Project at Chiswick House & Gardens will initially run for four weeks and starts on 24 October. For full details and booking information visit www.thewildmindproject.org or phone 07515 355796.
Funded by Inspire Hounslow
