Into Nature CIC runs nature-based sessions and groups for the whole community. These offer opportunities to socialise and connect, learn new skills and enjoy the many benefits of being in nature. In these times of increased social isolation, worries and stress for so many people, this is needed more than ever. We want to purchase equipment to facilitate group experiences for up to 12 people, consisting of a set of kit for each participant with a mug, plate, cutlery, knife, hammock, firestriker and sit mat. We would like to get tools to enable woodwork and conservation tasks, e.g. axes and saws, equipment to teach fire lighting skills, a cooking set to allow us to feed and nourish a whole group, storage, and a simple compost toilet to make going to the loo in the woods that little bit nicer. We would also like to recruit and train volunteers who can support our sessions through outdoor cooking as well as listening skills and mental health awareness.

What we'll deliver:

• 12 sets of kit for participants
• Tools, equipment and group cooking facilities
• Upgraded toilet facilities
• Secure storage for kit
• Training sessions for our staff and volunteers

Why it's a great idea:

During this last year, lots of people have (re-)connected with nature; we have experienced how spending time in nature is good for our physical and mental health, a fact backed by research. At Into Nature CIC, we make the most of being in nature by offering activities that get us connected, creative and empowered. Our focus is to bring people together, tackling isolation and enabling connections, no matter what your background or age might be. Although we are mainly crowdfunding for things, we know what these can help people achieve in our programmes – relaxation, self-believe, personal growth, self-reliance, courage and a sense of guardianship. Your contribution to the crowdfunder will be of long-lasting benefit to all people of Cirencester and the surrounding areas coming to our activity sessions and groups, through better equipment, facilities and support. It will help us to set up our social prescribing programme and other initiatives to support those most in need.

Steps to get it done:

• Set up compost toilet
• Purchase equipment and prepare individual kit bags
• Install storage facility
• Recruit volunteers
• Organise training for staff and volunteers
• Run more Forest School, training and wellbeing in nature sessions for the community

This is what your money will buy: • £3: Mug • £10: Fire gloves • £14: Bushcraft knife • £20: Bowsaw • £25: Hammock • £35: Fire bowl • £50: Kelly Kettle • £65: Woodland axe • £100: Set of kit for one participant • £150: Group cooking set • £250: Listening skills course for staff and volunteers • £400: Compost toilet