New Caledonian Woodlands

A non-profit organisation that promotes mental well-being and encourages environmental sustainability. Most projects bring together adults experiencing mental ill-health with conservation activities to restore their confidence and rebuild the necessary life skills to reenter employment. Stemming from a belief that nature facilitates positive health and well-being, all of the projects use the environment as a medium - whether it’s foraging through the forest for unused wood, picking windfall from orchards, crafting wooden spoons or weaving bird feeders. Not all projects are mental health and employability related. Other projects include reskilling days where stools are crafted and wooden spoons are made, as well as Woodland Weekends where all are welcome to escape from city life and discover unexplored corners of Scotland. Activities include tree pruning, cutting and burning invasive vegetation and making paths. And what better way to end the day roasting marshmallows with a warm cuppa by the fire in a stately home surrounded by good company? Recognised for their valuable contribution to the community, New Caledonian Woodlands is the proud recipient of 2014 Bank of Scotland Community Fund Award. Other achievements include nomination for the 2014 Lloyds Bank and Bank of Scotland Social Entrepreneur of the Year Award and 2012 Social Enterprise of the Year Award.