Rose Hill Outdoor Mentoring Project (360G-OCF-A599059)

We will provide 1:1 mentoring and small group activities focussed on our Community allotment for children aged 8 to 15 years. The 1:1 work will support them to engage in group activities whilst providing a safe place to have someone to talk to about their concerns and issues and help the build protective factors and coping strategies. This will help them build confidence to participate in small group activities on the allotment which will provide opportunities for them to: -connect with other children and adults, -participate in physical activities in an outdoor space, -learn new skills including gardening, landscaping, carpentry and construction -learn about food growing and healthy eating -work alongside others -make a positive contribution to their community. Children are referred to us for mentoring support by local schools, Family Solutions and local and community organisations. They have an introductory session with their mentor to work together to develop a plan to improve their mental wellbeing and identify the types of positive activities they would like to engage in which includes our Outdoor Mentoring programme on our community allotment. Children work with a mentor for 6-8 sessions initially, but this can be extended. They are introduced to the allotment by their mentor and supported 1:1 to undertake activities, learn new skills and knowledge, and become confident enough to work with others in small groups. As well as outdoor physical activity and gardening skills they will have opportunities to input creatively into planning the allotment, growing food and constructing items (raised beds, seating, shelters). They learn to slow down, be in the moment as they concentrate on physical or creative tasks, and watch nature through the seasons. When mentoring sessions finish, children progress to participate in our new allotment club, staying connected with their community and remaining physically active.