The idea
The Joshua Tree has grown significantly in recent years and has supported over 400 children and young people and their families and around 1,500 individuals who are affected by childhood cancer.
Last year 90 new families turned to the charity for support, a 120% increase on the previous year. As a result of this increased demand we now require additional space at our Support Centre base, so we can deliver more outdoor activities for families that need us.
The initial funds raised will help us to purchase additional land at our Support Centre, provide fencing in preparation for new outdoor activities and purchase outdoor equipment.
As a result of this purchase, we will deliver more activities for families including:
• Weekly Saturday events ranging from nature walks to community gardening
• Holiday programmes including, Forest Schools, Bushcraft, Den Building, Cooking, and nature based sessions.
• Weekly outdoor wellness sessions including things like Tai Chi and Yoga
What we'll deliver
- Purchase new land
- Plant Trees
- Provide outdoor equipment
Why it's a great idea
Families tell us they come to The Joshua Tree because other sources of support are simply not available for all family members during the traumatic experience of childhood cancer. Families face a range of challenges, including drastic changes to daily routines, relationships, communications, and financial challenges. The child’s cancer treatment also affects the family’s wider need for care, self-esteem, social interaction, and general functioning.
We also know that post-treatment is an especially challenging time as families are having to adapt to their ‘new normal’ and re-engaging with the real-world following treatment is extremely difficult. The support offered by The Joshua Tree is crucial and by purchasing additional land we can help more families.
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By developing a green prescribing project targeted towards families affected by childhood cancers, we are able to build on our own experience and work to make the most of the green assets in our community..
Steps to get it done
- April 2024 Purchase Land
- June 2024 Install Fencing
- July 2024 Plant Trees
- August 2024 Purchase Outdoor Equipment
Our families suggested that they want green prescribing – nature based and outdoor activities designed to improve their fitness, happiness and wellbeing. When we have piloted outdoor activities families have reported reduced stress and improved relaxation. Parents have also reported feeling happier and that their children are happier too. The opportunities to do things that they have missed out on previously as a result of their child’s health/needs have been really valued with individuals reporting that this made them feel normal again. Families have really benefited from having time together and being able to enjoy things/try things out together too.
