Ecotherapy

Forty Hall Vineyard is a beautiful and unique setting for taking part in relaxing, physical, outdoor activity throughout the year. The Vineyard is one of a rapidly growing number of ecotherapy projects (also known as ‘green care’ or ‘green exercise’ projects) around the UK, which aim to boost physical and mental wellbeing, through social connection and gentle outdoor activity.  We do this through offering volunteering opportunities in the Vineyard.

What is Ecotherapy?

It is just another way of saying that doing some kind of physical activity in the natural environment will make you feel better about yourself.

A recent report Ecotherapy: the green agenda for mental health by the mental-health charity, MIND, details the scientific research which confirms that people with physical and mental-health problems really do benefit from engaging in simple outdoor activities. 

How does it work? 

Volunteering opportunities are open to members of the community, including people with mild to moderate mental health issues or a managed long term condition.

An ecotherapist attends each volunteering session and acts as a listening ear.  Participants can work alone, in pairs, in small groups or in larger teams. Whatever feels more comfortable. 

What are the benefits of volunteering? 

"Volunteering or joining a community group can make sure people stay physically and mentally active for longer. The health benefits of this cannot be overestimated."   Professor Sally Davies, Chief Medical Officer, Dec 2016

At Forty Hall Vineyard volunteering is offered in a safe, secluded and beautiful setting, with stunning views over London and abundant wildlife and participants benefit from:

  • Developing and learning new skills
  • Enhanced fitness through outdoor physical activity 
  • Improved wellbeing and reduced isolation
  • Mutual peer-to-peer support, mentoring and encouragement from a friendly, supportive team     
  • A sense of local pride and engagement through contributing to a unique community business
  • A range of training and off-site visits

 WHERE AND WHEN?

Volunteer sessions in the Vineyard... 

Monday 9.30am to 12.30pm

Wednesdays 9.30 am to 12.30pm 

First and third Sunday of every month 10:00am to 1:00pm

The volunteers are the backbone of the Vineyard, they ensure the precious vines are cared for throughout the year in preparation for the harvest of grapes and production of our acclaimed London wines. 

Get in touch 

If you, or anyone you know or work with might benefit from getting involved with the project, please contact gabrielle@fortyhallvineyard.com

FHV ecotherapy is generously supported by The National Lottery Community Fund  

 

 

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