Carers in Nature is a programme which has been funded by the Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning group to enable those with formal caring responsibilities to take time to relax and enjoy a few hours of the week immersed in nature. Wildlife gardening is a key theme, it demonstrates gardening methods and principles which can be replicated in participants gardens with their family.

Taking on the role of carer changes the relationship between the carer and cared for.  The carers’ role morphs from that of parent, sibling, friend, or partner, to take on so many other responsibilities - provider, confidante, nurse, housekeeper, driver and so many more. Carers in Nature gives those carers time each week to engage with an interest of their own without other responsibilities. A friendly and relaxed environment enables them to meet and chat with others in a similar situation as themselves. The opportunity to create, build and develop ideas which they can then implement and enjoy at home with their loved ones, provides a small release valve in an otherwise busy and often stressful week.

Whether you are a carer or not, one of the great positives that has emerged from the past year has been how so many have rediscovered the enjoyment to be had from being outdoors. The daily walks or forays into the garden have enhanced our appreciation for the green spaces around us, and for those who don't have a green space of their own the value of communal parks and gardens has been immeasurable.

It has long been recognised that the health and wellbeing benefits of being outdoors and engaging with the natural world are immense, but now more than ever it seems important to just take time to reconnect with the world around us. Whether you have been isolated and indoors, or able to enjoy a daily walk, as the world begins to speed up again it is all too easy to slip back into old routines where taking time for nature becomes an occasional luxury rather than a daily necessity.