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Branching Out

Branching Out is a restorative programme designed to enhance wellbeing and social inclusion for vulnerable families through nature connection and ecotherapy. Held at the Walpole Community Centre and the Discovery Centre in Kings Lynn, the project will support families in embracing wildlife, fostering new friendships, and cultivating more sustainable lifestyles. Through activities like gardening, mindfulness in nature, foraging, and plant identification, participants will connect with the natural world and each other. Even in less favorable weather, arts, crafts, and family well-being activities will ensure that every session fosters togetherness and personal growth

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This Project has been funded by Grantscape

Programme Information

We’re thrilled to launch this exciting new program designed to help families reconnect with nature while learning practical ways to live more sustainably. This program will have a positive impact on your mental, physical, and financial wellbeing—something we all need right now. By growing your own food and making use of the resources around you, you’ll not only save money but also foster a deeper connection with nature and each other.

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Growing your own food has so many benefits, from providing fresh, healthy ingredients to the sense of accomplishment and joy that comes from nurturing something from seed to harvest. Watching things grow fosters a sense of mindfulness, patience, and fulfillment—qualities that benefit both adults and children. Once you begin, you'll be amazed at how rewarding it feels!

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But this program is more than just learning how to grow food. It’s about embracing the power of nature for our overall wellbeing. Studies have shown that time in nature reduces stress, boosts our mood, enhances creativity, and strengthens our immune system. For children, outdoor activities improve cognitive development, increase focus, and encourage social interactions.

Through this program, we’ll offer a variety of sessions designed to benefit both your family and the environment. Join us on this journey to live more sustainably, while reconnecting with the beauty and simplicity of the natural world.

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Upcoming Sessions

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October 14, 2024: Autumn Nature Walk & Foraging Adventure
Location: TBC
Join us as we kick off our program with an autumn nature walk! We’ll explore the beauty of the season while foraging for natural items to use in later sessions. This hands-on experience will be an opportunity for families to learn about the resources growing around us and how to use them. Children will love the adventure of hunting and gathering, while playing and making new friends along the way. Be sure to bring a flask—we’ll provide warm refreshments to keep everyone cozy.

November 16, 2024: Slowing Down for Winter – A Sensory Nature Walk
Location: Snettisham Woods
As winter approaches, it’s time to slow down and reflect. During this calming walk through Snettisham Woods, we’ll take time to connect with our senses—listening to the rustling leaves, feeling the cool air, and noticing the earthy scents around us. Engaging the senses in nature has been shown to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and promote feelings of relaxation. For children, these sensory experiences enhance cognitive development and boost emotional resilience. Afterward, we’ll gather for warm snacks and refreshments, with time for kids to play and families to socialise.

November 25, 2024: Nature-Inspired Christmas Crafts
Location: Walpole Community Centre
Get into the festive spirit with our nature-based Christmas decoration workshop! Together, we’ll handcraft beautiful, eco-friendly ornaments using materials gathered from nature. This is a wonderful opportunity for families to bond while getting creative, and it’s a great way to introduce sustainability into holiday traditions. Crafting can also be a mindful activity, helping both adults and children to focus, relax, and tap into their creative energy.

December 21, 2024: Winter Solstice Celebration & Fire Gathering
Location: TBC
As the winter solstice approaches, we’ll gather around the fire to reflect on the past year and set intentions for the new one. This time of year is perfect for slowing down, turning inward, and finding light within during the darkest days. We’ll take part in a simple ceremony to release what no longer serves us and welcome new possibilities for the year ahead. Families will enjoy coming together for this magical, grounding experience, filled with warmth, connection, and celebration.

February 1, 2025: The Buzz About Bees – A Family Workshop
Location: Walpole Community Centre
We are excited to welcome experienced beekeepers Sue and Andy, who will share the fascinating world of bees with us. In this interactive workshop, you’ll learn why bees are essential to our ecosystem and how we can help them thrive. Children will be captivated by the stories and hands-on activities that introduce them to the life of a beekeeper. Supporting bees is critical to sustaining our environment, and understanding their importance will inspire families to protect these incredible creatures.

 

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Thanks to the generous funding from the 'Hornsea Community Fund', we're able to bring these sessions to life. Their support is instrumental in fulfilling a vital need within our community.

While our sessions are free of charge, we gratefully accept donations to sustain and enhance our services. Whether it's through PayPal, cash on the day, or BACs transfer, your contributions make a world of difference, allowing us to continue our mission of enriching the lives of families in our area.

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We are always looking for volunteers so if you are able to donate time, please head to our volunteers information page for more information.

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