Good Wood Project

The Good Wood Project is based in Edinburgh and runs for people experiencing mild to moderate mental health issues. The project uses community-based environmental conservation as a forum for improving physical health, mental health, well-being and confidence among participants.

The project is split into delivery blocks of 10 to 12 week duration, with groups of participants attending once-weekly 4-hour sessions for the full 10 to 12 week period. Participation on the project is by referral, with referrals coming from GP’s, Community Psychiatric Nurses, support workers and other health and support staff.

The project links with other local agencies so that it is able to act as a gateway for participants to training courses and other activities which better equip them for employment in the future. During the pilot phase, over 70% of participants went on to engage in voluntary, further education, health/fitness or employment activity beyond the end of the project period, while attendance rates were consistently high.