Proposals for the use of Norton Big Wood as a place of refuge and recovery for people with mental health issues was discussed with Ecominds in late 2009.
Ecominds is a grant programme which helps people with experience of mental distress get involved in local environmental projects that improvemental and physical health. Ecominds is run by Mind as an award partner of the Big Lottery Fund – as part of their Changing Spaces Programme. Ecominds projects promote ecotherapy – work and experiences in outdoor environments. There is growing evidence that green exercise provides great benefits for health and well-being. The work of Ecominds compliments the work of Hill Holt Wood as a provider or community-based resources for those in need. Hill Holt Wood will manage Big Wood with Rangers (trained in woodland crafts, teaching and client support) by involving local community, volunteers and specifically people with mental health issues to ensure the sustainability of the woodland for generations to come.
