Two new programmes in Wyre will use beach clean-ups, wildlife and time outdoors to boost wellbeing and belonging, with monthly weekend sessions for 11- to 18-year-olds
Spending time outdoors can do more than lift your mood – it can help bring a community together. That’s the mission of The Bay – A Blueprint for Recovery.
The Morecambe Bay-based project has been awarded £48,024 from the Wyre Council Community Cohesion Fund to run two new programmes along the Wyre coast: Nature is the Glue, for people of all backgrounds, and Tidal Together, for young people aged 11 to 18.
The Bay, part of Lancashire Wildlife Trust, has worked with people and communities along the Morecambe Bay coast and is now transporting its success to the Fylde Coast. It runs group sessions that help people look after their health and wellbeing through the nature on their doorstep, in a social and welcoming setting.
Nature is the Glue
The first project builds on The Bay’s Nature and Wellbeing programme, which has spent five years bringing people together through shared experiences outdoors.
Its nature-based activities are designed to improve mental wellbeing, break down barriers and stigma, and build connections between people who may otherwise feel isolated. The idea is that, whatever their backgrounds, people tend to want the same things – healthier communities, a better environment and positive change. A shared love of nature gives them somewhere to start.
“Nature doesn’t judge and connects us all,” said Rachel Glascott, community engagement officer at The Bay. “Collective appreciation or action to protect our wonderful wildlife is a powerful way to overcome division and give a sense of belonging.”
Tidal Together
The second project is aimed at young people. Tidal Together will help 11 to 18-year-olds connect with nature, improve their mental wellbeing, build confidence and leadership skills and have a say in shaping positive environmental change along the Wyre coast.
It will run as monthly weekend sessions, delivered through The Bay’s Wave Warriors programme. They will welcome young people who might benefit from extra support, whether because of social isolation, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression or bereavement, or because they find social situations or mainstream activities difficult.
Mike McDonnell, senior engagement and wellbeing officer at The Bay, said the approach is simple.
“We discard labels. Our inclusive wellbeing sessions are thoughtfully adapted and welcoming for all. We often don’t reflect how special this is, as for us it’s just the way we operate. It is the norm to make everyone feel included, supported, and valued.”
He added that the projects are about spreading hope.
“Nature connects us all, and collective efforts to protect wildlife are a powerful way to create feelings of hope, unity and belonging. Every kind act, connection, beach clean-up or environmental effort is a sign of hope, and we aim for this ripple of positivity to continue spreading.”
The Wyre Council Community Cohesion Fund was set up by Wyre Council and is run by Community First Blackpool, Wyre & Fylde. It backs projects that build social trust, promote inclusion and connect people from different backgrounds across the borough.
Want to take part? Find out more about The Bay and how to get involved on the Lancashire Wildlife Trust website.
