About Ecominds

Better mental health through green activities

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wYmQvEZFx_8

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Ecominds has funded 130 environmental projects in England that help people living with mental health problems get involved in green activities to improve confidence, self-esteem, and their physical and mental health.

Projects range from horticultural and agricultural schemes, through to walking groups and regeneration projects in local parks. They all encourage those attending to enjoy and benefit from nature and green spaces.

Projects aim to break down barriers and combat mental health discrimination by improving links between participants and the local community.

Interaction with other service users and local volunteers, can provide valuable opportunities to share personal experiences and widen social networks.

Types of projects

• Community horticultural and agricultural projects
• Walking and rambling groups 
• Creating and renovating wildlife habitats
• Clearing open spaces for community use
• Environmental protection
• Creating or renovating urban green areas
• Recycling projects, such as furniture, glass, and white goods
• Community agricultural projects linking gardeners and producers with local selling opportunities
• Producing artwork in public places and in enclosed spaces
• Learning new environmental skills.

Still not sure what types of activities take place at the Ecominds projects? Visit A day in the life of a project to read about what happens from start to finish in a jam-packed project day.

How can I get involved in an Ecominds project?

We have projects throughout England. Some are open to all, others require you to phone up for more information, and some require referrals from your GP.

To find out more about a project near you, including how to join or get involved, visit our find a project page. Here you can also find out what servicer users and the local community think about the project.

Where has the funding come from?

Ecominds is managed by Mind who are award partners of the Big Lottery Fund (BIG) Changing Spaces programme. 

BIG's Changing Spaces programme was launched in 2005 to help communities enjoy and improve their local environments. The programme funds a range of activities from local food schemes and farmers markets to education projects teaching people about the environment.

Note: Ecominds grant applications are now closed.

1. (Halliwell, E (2005), Up and Running? Exercise therapy and the treatment of mild or moderate depression in primary care, Mental Health Foundation, London.)