Tree Canopy Project

There is growing evidence of the physical and mental health benefits of being outdoors.

Following the success of our Community Allotment, we have created a new Tree Canopy Project in the beautiful woodlands off Rydens Road in Walton on Thames.

Overseen by Karen, our Green Spaces Manager, this community woodland project gives local residents the opportunity to get outdoors and active through the following initiatives:

Forest school

Rewilding Forest School runs sessions for children throughout the year. Their holistic approach encourages children’s imaginations, builds self-esteem and creates a desire to understand, learn and respect the natural world around them.

Guided wellbeing

Kate from Guided Wellbeing runs sessions for adults who want to reconnect with nature.  Her Wild Women group meet regularly at the Tree Canopy Project, and her nature workshops have included wreath making, foraging and cooking.

Tree warden scheme

The Tree Canopy Project is also used as a base for the Elmbridge Tree Warden Scheme who organise tree planting days and a programme of aftercare for newly planted trees in our local area. If you would like to get involved, follow the Elmbridge tree wardens grop on Facebook @ElmbridgeTreeWardens

Exciting developments…

We have recently been awarded £75,000 by the Mental Health Innovation Fund to continue developing the Tree Canopy Programme. Our new community grower will be using this funding to start new projects with local community groups on our Tree Canopy space which focus on mental health and wellbeing.

We also have a new community development officer starting with the charity soon. Their role is to coordinate and facilitate community minded projects that use this green space.

If you are interested in running an activity or looking for outdoor space for a community project or activity, please contact us at greenspaces@waltoncharity.org.uk