Woodland Wellbeing for Dementia
🌳 Restorative Moments in Nature: Dementia Woodland Wellbeing in Brimsham Park, Yate
For individuals living with dementia and their carers in South Gloucestershire, the Forest of Avon Trust offers a special kind of support Woodland Wellbeing sessions in Brimsham Park, Yate. Designed to encourage connection, joy, and a sense of calm in green surroundings, these sessions run fortnightly on Wednesday mornings, 10:30 – 12:30 pm, in accessible woodland settings in Yate.
Why It Matters
Since 2011, the Trust has run inclusive outdoor programmes anchored in Forest School principles and the NHS Five Ways to Wellbeing—Be Active, Notice, Connect, Keep Learning, Give Back (Forest of Avon). Bathing in nature, participants and their carers report reduced stress, better mood and sleep, improved mobility, strengthened bonds, and a renewed sense of purpose .
👉 As one carer put it:
“It’s really lovely to hear R laughing … I haven’t seen or heard him laugh like this for a long time.”
What Happens in Brimsham Park
Gentle, guided woodland strolls
Campfire cooking and warming cuppas
Creative nature‑based crafts and sensory experiences
Forest games, wildlife watching, and casual chats
The activities are fluid “we go with the flow of what interests you” ensuring each session is both nurturing and adaptable (bristoldementiawellbeing.org, bristoldementiawellbeing.org, myyate.co.uk).
Supported by Best Life Companions
These sessions in Yate are generously supported by Best Life Companions (formerly Adorno), a B‑Corp certified care provider dedicated to enhancing wellbeing and independence for older adults and those with memory loss.
Their sponsorship ensures these workshops are free-to-attend and sustained by a trusted partner who lives their mission: brightening lives through compassionate, person-centred support .
✍️ How to Join the Waiting List
Spaces are intentionally kept small to maintain a relaxed, supportive atmosphere. To join the waiting list:
Contact the Forest of Avon Trust:
Call or text: 07855 560856 (Rachel Tomlinson)
Or email: helen.gray@forestofavontrust.org
Provide:
Your name, and the name of the person living with dementia
Contact details
Any access needs or support requirements
The Trust team will reach out as places become available, helping to ensure a good fit for each duo.
🌿 Why You Should Consider It
Benefit Description Safe, Natural Environment Calming woodland setting for shared quality time (bristoldementiawellbeing.org, bristoldementiawellbeing.org) Purposeful Engagement Choose from cooking, crafting, walking, wildlife tailored to interest Social Connection Low-pressure group interactions build rapport and community Professional Support Led by experienced practitioners and volunteers Cost-Free Access, no cost to participants
🌟 Final Thoughts
The Woodland Wellbeing sessions at Brimsham Park offer far more than a stroll through the woods they provide laughter, companionship, and a reconnection with nature for people living with dementia and their carers. With thoughtful support from the Forest of Avon Trust and sponsorship by Best Life Companions, this programme offers transformative, moments-in-nature that lift spirits and strengthen bonds.
Spaces fill quickly so if this resonates with you, reach out today to join the waiting list. We look forward to welcoming you among the trees at Brimsham Park.
For details or to ask questions, don’t hesitate to contact the Trust. And remember to follow both Forest of Avon Trust and Best Life Companions online for updates, stories, and heartwarming moments from the forest.
