Last year I experienced poor mental health, I asked for help and referred myself to my local IAPT service to be told that it was counselling but that I will have to wait 12 months to start therapy. Sadly, my experience is one of many women in Wakefield. A huge part of my recovery has being able to walk amongst some of the most beautiful areas in Wakefield and hard work to self-manage my own mental health positively. I have set up ‘ Bring Me To Life – Women’s Wellness CIC’, that will benefit the women of Wakefield, focusing on positive mental health, connecting with nature and general self-management. Our projects will be centred around how our wellbeing and mental health are positively enhanced by our connections with nature and wildlife and providing the space in nature for women to talk and connect with peers through Forest therapy, wellness in the woods, wellbeing walks, group wellness coaching, 1 to 1 wellness coaching..

What we'll deliver:

• Deliver regular wellbeing projects in nature for women
• Recruit and train volunteers to facilitate wellness walks and upskill in Mental health First Aid
• Facilitate wellness coaching to groups of women identified as vulnerable, in partnership with local services
• Provide a weekly 'Walk n Talk' safe space for women in the community to connect with peers
• Run projects and initiatives at more accessible times in the week for those who have work commitments and dependants

Why it's a great idea:

- Well supported women who are empowered to take control of their health and wellbeing promoting positive mental health and self-management. Ultimately, improving women’s wellbeing within local communities amongst peers, children and loved ones. -Empowered and well-supported women leading the way in managing their own emotional health and wellbeing, educating their families and children in positive mental health to not survive but thrive. -Reduced waiting times in local gender targeted primary care mental health services, enabling other women in the district to receive timely and effective mental health support when it is most needed. - Provide volunteering opportunities for those with lived experience of mental health and the barriers those with mental illness face, with the aim of building their confidence and resilience to eventually seek paid employment.

Steps to get it done:

• Organise training for project lead
• Recruit volunteers and board members- Organise training to be provided
• Run group wellness coaching, forest bathing, Walk n talk, wellness in the woods projects