Nature-Based Wellbeing

At St Nicks, we all see and feel the benefits of being outdoors and connected to nature. These benefits can be physical, mental, or a combination of both!

Lots of science and research shows us how this works, but the best way to understand it is to experience it for yourself. Step outside, go for a walk or sit and spend a few quiet moments noticing the birdsong and the trees - you may begin to feel the benefits in your own way.

Our new Nature-Based Wellbeing project aims to help people connect to nature, enjoy the outdoors and feel the benefits of doing so.

For adults, we offer a mixed programme of support including group activities, green social prescribing and employability-focused support.
For children and young people, we run regular groups for 0–16-year-olds and their families and nature-based education sessions for schools, organisations and clubs.

Group Activities

For adults who want to connect with people and nature to improve their wellbeing - join our 'Peer' or 'Skills & Learning' groups.

Explore more

Tortoiseshell butterfly with orange, yellow and balck wings is on a flower with white petals and a bright yellow centre with green plants surrounding

Green Social Prescribing

For adults who would like more support in accessing new green spaces, groups or volunteering.

Discover more

warm light shining on a path into distance with trees with green and yellow leaves on both sides

Stepping Stones - Trailblazer Support

For adults who would like one-to-one mentoring to help them explore volunteering and work opportunities.

Learn more

yellow and black bee holding on to the side of a purple thistle flower

Children, Young People and Education

For children, young people, families, schools and clubs - join our regular groups or take part in educational sessions.

Get involved

A smiling boy in the woodland area with very muddy hands

close up bright yellow daffodil with triangular petals and trumpet shaped centre, there are some water droplets on the petals, green stems below and blurred bare branches in the background

"Arriving at the gates of St Nicks has felt like arriving at an oasis of calm and safety".

- Group Participant

Nature-Based Wellbeing at St Nicks has been made possible with special thanks to funding from the Community Mental Health Transformation Fund, York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, including Movement Activity and Sport Fund and using funding from the Department for Work and Pensions' Get Britain Working Economic Inactivity Trailblazer, The Purey Cust Trust, National Lottery Awards for All, The National Grid Electricity Transmission Local Community Fund and North Yorkshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner.

NYPFCC Logo

Join St Nicks

Over more than two decades, volunteers and supporters have made St Nicks what it is today: a flourishing hub of green inspiration for the city. You can help grow the green heart of York by joining St Nicks. Your support will help us sustain and expand our work.

Join us to help fulfill our vision for York to be a city where people value wildlife, the environment and each other equally to sustain a rich and healthy life for all.

Learn more