About this class

Our supportive group is a wonderful way to help improve wellbeing, get outdoors and take time to connect with yourself & the local landscape. There is lots of evidence for the benefits of being in nature and how it can improve mental & physical health and confidence. Our group invites participants to connect with all their senses, and discover the beauty and restorative impact of spending time outside with others.

Typical groups include:

• guided walks on beautiful chalk grassland
• conservation activities
• visiting a local farm & learning about farming on the Downs
• guided mindfulness
• simple cookery & a shared meal
• learning natural crafts and traditional skills

When: Our next group starts Friday 19th September 2025 and runs for 6 weeks, until Friday 24th October. Each session runs 10.15am (minibus pickup) – 2.30pm (minibus drop off). Applicants must be available for all sessions. (Another 6-week group will run in November-December 2025, booking available soon)

Who is it for? People who would benefit from time in nature to improve wellbeing, such as those who’ve experienced depression, anxiety, stress or another mental health diagnosis. Places will be prioritised for those living in Shoreham or Brighton & Hove and who have not taken part in our outdoor groups before.

Venue and facilities: We will be based at the Food Partnership Clubhouse on Saddlescombe Road, BN1 8AX, where there are toilets and hand washing facilities. Free minibus transport will be provided from central Brighton. The Clubhouse is located within Wilding Waterhall, a local nature reserve & Brighton’s newest rewilding project. We may also be visiting other Downland locations in Sussex over the course.

We have shelter from the elements, and provide tea, coffee and a supportive and welcoming environment. Please note that the majority of our activities will be accessible to those with moderate mobility. However, there are some steep slopes and uneven ground so this group will unfortunately not be accessible to wheelchair users or those who need assistance with walking. Please talk to us if you are unsure about taking part due to mobility issues. Participants will need to wear sturdy shoes and clothing appropriate for the weather.

Regularly attending these outdoor wellbeing sessions has had a significant impact on my mental wellbeing. Specifically, they’ve helped me to reduce my anxiety and increase confidence around social interactions. It has given me a sense of purpose and belonging.

About your leaders: Our session leaders from the Food Partnership are experienced in ecotherapy and have been delivering similar groups in Brighton & Hove for many years. We are also founding members of the Sussex Green Wellbeing Alliance.

Read our blog to find out more about what previous participants said about the course.

Growing New Roots is part of the Changing Chalk project. Changing Chalk is a partnership of organisations working together for the future of the South Downs. Through this project, we are reversing the decline of the fragile chalk grassland, and connecting local communities to the nationally significant landscape on their doorstep. Led by the National Trust, the partnership connects nature, people and heritage, and is supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and People’s Postcode Lottery. It is restoring lost landscapes and habitats, bringing history to life and offering new experiences in the outdoors.