Hiking events to help men's mental health

The scheme aims to help mean embrace positive change through interaction with nature

Men struggling with their mental wellbeing are being urged to sign up to free events, which include kiking, woodwork and campfire cooking.

Wiltshire Wildlife Trust and the county council are hosting a series of outdoor events this autumn, called ‘Wellbeing in Nature’.

They are aimed at men aged from 20 to 59 to develop "social skills and coping techniques" through activities such as whittling and bush craft.

It is hoped the programmes will help those struggling to “create new habits to encourage positive behaviour change".

The scheme was launched earlier this year and was met with positive responses.

One participant said it had a "positive impact" on their wellbeing, and that it helped to learn to “take time to sit with myself and enjoy nature.”

Course leader at Wiltshire Wildlife Trust Dave Turner said: "I feel that through this programme we have made a truly positive impact on individuals’ mental health and provided them with the means to continue that ‘recovery’ journey."

Participants will learn a range of skills, including bush craft and woodwork

Wiltshire County Council believes the programmes are an important tool in helping those struggling make the “first step” towards improving their outlook.

Cabinet member for public health Ian Blair-Pilling said the course allows people "experiencing mental health problems opportunities to recover within their community".

“I would encourage those who find it hard to talk about their mental health to sign up and attend, it’s a safe and supportive environment.”

The autumn programmes will start on 21 October in Chippenham and Saturday 26 October in Salisbury. Both will run for more than 12 weeks.