Growing Connections

FREE sessions from Sunnyside’s Community Wellbeing Service

We have National Lottery funding to help improve the quality of lives for those in social isolation, for adults with a learning disability, autism, people with mild mental health needs, older people and those with dementia.

We are offering the opportunity to join in meaningful activities, working in small supportive groups. The sessions not only improve physical health, mental health and well-being, but also offer a sense of connection and community, while developing confidence, skills and abilities.

Introduction Video

Here is a short video, describing our Community Wellbeing Service:

Growing & Gardening

You can come to one of our three sites and learn to grow food, flowers and plants. We work in small groups and at your pace. Enjoy the experience of each season. Join us to improve your physical and mental wellbeing and make new connections. The therapeutic benefits of gardening are amazing.

Working with Animals

Join us in the peaceful surroundings of our Northchurch site. Learn how to care for our rescued ducks, chickens, goats, pigs and sheep while enjoying the therapeutic benefits of being in nature. We look after them and they look after us.

Baking

At our Hemel Food Garden site we have our own bakery. We run weekly baking sessions where it is wonderfully relaxing to knead dough, mix ingredients and be creative. Let baking awaken your senses through different tastes and smells. A fun way to spend a couple of hours creating something delicious together to eat.

Craft & Woodwork

Come and enjoy learning new craft skills. Be inspired by nature and explore working with different natural materials including wood, wool, stone, flowers and more. No experience or skills are necessary, just bring yourself and join in.

Music & Sound

Everyone has a voice and can enjoy the benefits of group singing; its great exercise for the mind, body and general wellbeing. Sessions are fun and can be done sitting or standing. Sessions can be offered on site and as outreach to already established groups.

We are also now offering therapeutic sound bath sessions. Sound baths involved being immersed in the relaxing sounds of Himalayan bowls, crystal bowls and percussion instruments. The sounds can result in physical relaxation, a calmer mind, reduced stress and an improved sense of wellbeing. Come and lay or sit and experience the benefits of what sounds can offer.

How to Join Us

All activities through this project are fully funded and free to participants, but you will need to make your own travel arrangements to the sessions. If you need help with this, please talk to your social prescribing link worker, social worker or community navigator.

If you’d like to be part of what we do, or for more information please contact us at wellbeing@sunnysideruraltrust.org.uk or call 01442 255977 ext. 2001.

Download our Referral Form: SRT Community Wellbeing Referral Form.docx

Lottery funding allows us to reach members of the local community most in need of social support.