Finally - we launched Wellness-on-Water...
We know that not everyone can join us for a walk for a plethora of reasons.
We also know that there are different ways that people can access nature.
We still want that to happen in a safe, supportive and inclusive way.
That’s why we fundraised to buy a specialist watercraft that can make all of that happen. We specifically chose to launch Wellness-on-Water with two differently engaged user groups.
Our first few sessions were with people who’d already engaged with Wellness Walks – or people who’d specifically asked if we could get onto the water.
But we want to use the KataKanu to support other community groups to be able to offer their service users opportunities to engage with nature, others and our beautiful county in ways they might not have before.
The first organisation we’ve supported is Multicultural Cumbria – this is what they had to say….
What made the day an attractive/exciting concept for Multicultural Cumbria?
For Multicultural Cumbria, the day was an exciting opportunity because it offered participants something different from their usual activities and surroundings. It provided an opportunity to experience another part of Cumbria, connect with the local environment and community, and take part in activities that some participants may not otherwise have had the chance to experience.
It was particularly valuable because the day combined enjoyment with opportunities for wellbeing, confidence-building, teamwork and social connection. Creating inclusive opportunities where people from different cultural backgrounds feel welcomed and able to participate is very important to us. The participants have an exceptional lack of confidence surrounding open water and boats, due to previous experiences, yet in this particular space, they were able to explore, generate confidence and safety with each other.
How easy have you found it, as an organisation, to access this sort of service/activity?
Opportunities like this are not always easy to access. There can be practical barriers for the communities we work with, including awareness of what is available, transport, cost, confidence and familiarity with different locations and activities.
Having an organised and welcoming opportunity made the experience much more accessible and gave participants the confidence to take part in something they might not have considered independently. We felt safe and in very capable hands
Do you think it helped participants to see a different part of Cumbria?
Yes, definitely. It gave participants an opportunity to experience a different part of Cumbria and to appreciate more of what the county has to offer.
For some people, opportunities to travel outside the places where they live and normally spend their time can be limited. Experiences like this can help people feel more connected to Cumbria as a whole and develop a greater sense of belonging.
Did it give them different ideas about ways they might engage with local communities in the future?
Yes. The experience showed that engaging with local communities can happen in many different ways, including through outdoor activities, volunteering, community events and simply visiting and exploring new places.
Positive experiences like this can help remove some of the uncertainty people may feel about going somewhere unfamiliar and encourage them to become more involved in similar opportunities in the future.
As individuals, did it give them space to get away from worries or concerns?
Yes. Having time away from everyday routines and responsibilities was an important part of the experience. Being in a different environment, spending time outdoors and taking part in enjoyable activities gave participants an opportunity to relax, socialise and focus on the experience in front of them.
That change of environment can be particularly valuable for people who may be dealing with pressures or worries in their everyday lives.
The day encouraged participants to step outside their usual routines, try new experiences and develop confidence in their own abilities.
It also created opportunities for teamwork, communication, problem-solving and supporting one another. An important part of the experience was not simply completing the activities but doing them together, encouraging each other and sharing the experience as a group.
Some Final Words from the participants themselves:
“The canoe trip was a really nice experience. It helped me relax, clear my mind, and enjoy being outdoors. I also enjoyed spending time with everyone and trying something new.” M., F, 26-35yrs
“It was a beautiful and fun trip, and the atmosphere was wonderful in your company” A., M, 18-25yrs
“Being in water made me feel good psychologically.”, B., F, 26-35yrs