Participant Journeys

1. Overcoming Anxiety and Building Confidence

"I have been going to the Wild Hub for about a year now & I have had some great experiences with Viki, Jade & the team. I have done a few workshops which are always fun especially when I can take along my young granddaughter, it’s lovely to see her getting involved & having a great time too... I have struggled in the past with anxiety & panic attacks, so going anywhere was a huge task for me but at the Wild Hub there is no judgment & no pressure, just kindness & understanding."

This individual came to The Wild Hub during a time when social anxiety made it difficult to attend groups. By offering a non-judgmental, welcoming space, she was able to take part in workshops such as dreamcatcher making, willow weaving, and even movement meditation—something far outside her comfort zone but which she described as transformative:

"I managed to release so much stagnant energy & I left the class feeling so much lighter."

From being withdrawn, she has grown in confidence, built friendships, and even starting her own business. The Wild Hub acted as a stepping stone to reconnect with community, rebuild confidence, and explore new opportunities for purpose and joy.

 

2. A Grandmother Supporting Children with Additional Needs

"This year I have attended a few sessions with my grandchildren. I was initially anxious because of their additional needs! This proved no problem. The Wild Hub team offered a calm and welcoming approach. During the session if any one of the children needed to fidget or move, it was accepted and adaptions made."

At her first session, this grandmother apologised constantly for her grandchildren’s behaviour, worried they were “too loud” or “too much.” Instead, she discovered they were celebrated for being themselves. She was able to relax and take part, while the children thrived in creative, calming activities that left them feeling positive and proud of what they achieved.

"The children loved the creative and calming sessions... Such a valuable offering to the children in our community."

For this family, The Wild Hub provided not only a safe and inclusive environment but also gave the grandmother respite from her worries, helping her see that her grandchildren were accepted exactly as they were.

 

3. Creativity, Connection and Volunteering

"Dream catcher crafting... I thoroughly enjoyed myself and made a few new friends along the way. This was a great way to forget everything else."

This participant explored many different workshops at The Wild Hub, including dreamcatcher making, nature-based meditation, life balance tools, and plant-based watercolour painting. She described how each activity encouraged creativity, connection, and personal reflection:

"We were guided though a beautiful meditation by Viki... I’m not an artist but there was no judgement, only encouragement. This really helps me with talking to people I haven’t met before."

Through these experiences, she gained not only new skills but also tools for improving her mental health and wellbeing. Importantly, she has gone on to become a volunteer, helping to deliver craft sessions to children.

"This participant now accesses so much of what we offer... She has made true friendships but also connections into other groups – she has also joined us as a volunteer as it has given her confidence and purpose... without this as a stepping stone – she wouldn’t be in this place now."