Changing Lives through Angling in Kent

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Funded on
01 Apr 2023

Our aim is to provide a programme of national fishing activities to act as a tool to support the mental health and wellbeing of children and young people

£3,469 Raised of £3,425

22 Backers

101%

Our Delivery Report

Funded on 01 April 2023 | Delivered on 24 March 2023

£3,469

RAISED

22

BACKERS

214

DAYS TO FUND

BIGGEST PLEDGE

£1,729

From Kent County Council

£10

MOST POPULAR PLEDGE AMOUNT

10 October 2023

You can take yourself away from the stresses of everyday life

Kent Live

Parents have commented that behaviours at home have improved. We had one parent who have had suicidal tendencies, she came one week and then the next time we had her she said ‘it made me feel so relaxed’.”\n\nShe said the coronavirus pandemic has had an impact on young people’s mental health, with many facing isolation and struggling to connect with others. She claims her group has helped them cope with isolation.\n\n“During Covid, friendship groups formed in different ways, young people struggled w

25 September 2023

Promoting the benefits of fishing on mental health

ITV News at 10

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More about our impact

The environment

This programme has taught young people to be aware of the environment around them and given them an interest in engaging with nature. It has also taught them about fish care and about ensuring all rubbish is taken home to protect wildlife

The local economy

Through introducing young people to fishing the local economy will be helped by more people wanting to purchase bait and tackle

Volunteering, jobs & education

Through working with the local fishing club we have now gained 3 additional volunteers to ensure that our programmes can grow and continue

Arts, culture & heritage

N/a

Activity, health and leisure

Angling is a totally inclusive sport. Although sedietary it promotes both mental and physical health. All participants taking part in the programme stated that the programme had helped their mental health.

http://www.castathought.co.uk

Cast A Thought is a community-focused social enterprise dedicated to improving mental health and wellbeing through the calming, restorative power of angling and time spent in nature. Our work is built on a simple belief: everyone deserves access to peaceful spaces, supportive relationships, and meaningful moments outdoors that help them feel grounded, connected, and valued.

We design and deliver inclusive programmes that use angling as a gentle, therapeutic activity to support people experiencing stress, anxiety, loneliness, bereavement, cognitive challenges, or long-term health conditions. Each session blends outdoor skill-building with mindful practice, conversation, and companionship, creating a safe environment where participants can slow down, breathe, and reconnect with themselves and others.

Our approach is shaped by evidence-based wellbeing principles and a deep understanding of how nature, routine, and positive social contact can transform someone’s day — and, over time, their confidence and outlook. We work closely with community partners, social prescribers, carers, and volunteers to ensure our programmes are accessible, dementia-friendly, and tailored to individual needs.

Cast A Thought has already supported people who rarely access traditional wellbeing services, offering a non-clinical, stigma-free space where they can build resilience, rediscover joy, and feel part of a community. Participants tell us they feel calmer, more hopeful, and more connected after taking part — outcomes that matter deeply in a world where many face isolation and rising mental health pressures.

Through our Spacehive campaign, we aim to expand our reach, strengthen our resources, and bring the wellbeing benefits of angling to even more people who would otherwise miss out. Every contribution helps us create supportive outdoor experiences that nurture mental health, build confidence, and offer a sense of belonging.

Cast A Thought exists to make wellbeing accessible, meaningful, and rooted in community.

Project Owner: Cast A Thought CIC The Project Owner takes legal responsibility for receiving and spending the funds raised and ensuring the project is delivered.