Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page where I'm raising money for The Woodland Project, serving families of children with moderate to severe learning difficulties in Sussex.

What is The Woodland Project?

The Woodland Project is run by Circle of Life Rediscovery and the CAMHS Learning Disability / Family Intensive Support Service (part of Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust). The project gives families of children with moderate to severe learning disabilities the chance to spend time together as a family, taking part in activities such as learning how to safely light and cook on a fire, woodland craft and singing and making music around a campfire.

“I just love the sense of freedom, because it’s away from busy crowded towns and cities. I don’t really go out that much anymore so it’s absolutely wonderful for me and my son just to be out here.” – Martin, Father supported by the CAMHS LD / FISS team.

My thoughts after visiting The Woodland Project

The Woodland Project is a great opportunity for families to get some space and enjoy time together doing activities and resting. Everyday places can be difficult to stomach for children with learning disabilities, many of whom also have conditions such as autism (see this video - http://on.mash.to/1MnWtae). The peace and sense of space in the woods means they can get some respite.

Parents frequently comment on how they and their kids love coming to the woods. One parent said their child was the happiest they've ever seen them. Another described how they've seen them doing things they've never done before. The children's confidence is built-up, and they're free to relax.

The children are cared for so well, enjoying the various activities, which allows parents to also enjoy the woods and meet other families in similar situations. I was particularly impressed that they were offered a well-earned massage.

I’m very pleased to have recently visited the project, to see first hand, all they're doing. The team are amazing, and I'm very excited to run the Brighton Marathon in support of everything they do.

Find out more

Check out this video, which explains what they do very well (it's nearly ten minutes long): https://youtu.be/tt3hnh5xxt0

Circle of Life Rediscovery's page for The Woodland Project:
www.circleofliferediscovery.com

CAMHS LD Family Intensive Support Service: www.sussexpartnership.nhs.uk/service-learning-disability-and-family-intensive-support-service

A family's video from the project: youtu.be/Vb-QQ9TJAG4

Other videos from the project: https://youtu.be/b21pH_vHMgg
https://youtu.be/JG02cVjQdS0
https://youtu.be/xEGlFwpAXO8

Why donate through JustGiving?