This autumn, a Wales-wide charity is inviting people in Pembrokeshire to take part in two free courses, which help to connect with nature and boost wellbeing.  

The Coed Lleol / Small Woods charity was established in Wales in 2002 to promote sustainable management of small woodlands for social, environmental and economic benefit. The charity has been running the Actif Woods Wales programme, a huge range of outdoor and nature based health and wellbeing activities, since 2010. Some of these activities were first brought online for participants during lockdown, and proved so popular that a range of courses have since been developed. 

Small Woods are experts in the field of sustainable woodland management and social forestry, developing to meet the needs of these growing sectors, and work in partnership with other organisations.

The free courses are run in English through an easy-to-use learning platform, with course materials available in Welsh and English. Sessions last one hour and run over a six-week period, and a simple registration process is all that is required. 

Led by expert tutor Peggy Beer, ‘Nature Crafts’ will involve working with foraged elements to create seed bombs, dreamcatchers, natural dyes and more. For Pembrokeshire residents, the course is on Thursdays from November 7 to December 12, 11am to 12 noon.

With ‘Foraging for Health and Wellbeing’, expert tutor Jody Marshall will take you through the basics of foraging, including plant identification, harvesting, and preparation. Gain the practical skills and knowledge you need to improve your diet, mental health, and connection to nature. For Pembrokeshire residents, the course is on Fridays from November 8 to December 13, 11am to 12 noon (The website says Mondays, but the dates suggest Fridays).

Online Project Officer Rosie Strang said: “After the pressures and isolation that many people endured during the pandemic, we are seeing that our online learning provision is consistently contributing to the overall wellbeing of those who attend.”  

These courses were developed and are being delivered under the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund. 

To register for a course, visit: coedlleol.org.uk/onlinecourses or contact [email protected]