Make the time to talk and listen
The Straw Patch Project
A safe outdoor space to nurture wellbeing and positive mental health.
Welcome to The Straw Patch Project
A mental health and wellbeing community group
Welcome to the Straw Patch Project, a nurturing community dedicated to promoting mental health and wellbeing through meaningful connections with nature, animals, and each other. Located amidst the tranquil surroundings of Strawfields, our project offers a safe and supportive environment where individuals can rediscover joy, build resilience, and find peace in the simplicity of rural life. Whether you join us for gardening, spending time with animals, or simply to share a moment of calm, there’s something here for everyone.
The Power of Nature for Wellbeing
At the Straw Patch Project, we believe in the transformative power of nature to heal and inspire. Surrounded by the serene beauty of Strawfields, participants can take a moment to breathe deeply, listen to the birds sing, and feel the gentle rhythm of the natural world. This connection with nature fosters a sense of calm, encourages mindfulness, and helps reduce stress, creating a profound impact on mental and emotional health.
About Us
Alex and Sarah are the co-directors of The Straw Patch Project. The Project was started in 2020 with the vision of creating a supportive community where individuals could connect with nature and improve their mental wellbeing. Since its inception, the Straw Patch Project has supported many different groups, offering tailored activities that nurture resilience, foster connection, and promote emotional healing. Their shared passion for nature and community drives everything they do, ensuring every participant feels valued and supported.
Sarah
Alex
Sarah, our activity leader for gardening and other workshops, brings her passion for gardening to every session. She created ‘Patch to Plate’, where participants plant, nurture, and grow vegetables, then enjoy creating a meal from the ingredients in season. Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or new to gardening, our supportive community is here to help you grow—both in the garden and within yourself.
Alex lives and works on the farm and has a deep love for all things outdoors. She enjoys offering hands-on animal sessions for participants of The Straw Patch Project and guests staying at Strawfields. These sessions provide a fun and interactive experience, offering a unique opportunity to connect with the alpacas, miniature ponies, and, of course, our furry best friend, Inca!
Gardening for Wellbeing
Make the time to talk and listen
Our gardens are the heart of the Straw Patch Project—a space where hands in the soil can help soothe the mind. Participants can take part in a variety of gardening activities, from planting seasonal vegetables and flowers to tending to our thriving herb beds. Gardening offers more than just fresh produce; it provides an opportunity to:
- Connect with nature and experience its therapeutic benefits.
- Develop a sense of accomplishment and purpose.
- Engage in gentle, stress-relieving physical activity.
Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or new to gardening, our supportive community is here to help you grow—both in the garden and within yourself.
Explore our Gardening Gallery
Connect with nature and experience its therapeutic benefits.
Healing Through Animals
companionship and moments of mindfulness
The animals at Strawfields play a vital role in the Straw Patch Project, offering companionship and moments of mindfulness. Spending time with our gentle alpacas, curious goats, friendly pigs and miniature ponies can help participants:
- Experience the calming presence of animals.
- Build confidence and improve emotional wellbeing through interaction.
- Enjoy the simple joy of caring for and feeding our friendly furry friends.
Our animals create a non-judgmental, peaceful space where participants can relax, reflect, and rediscover a sense of connection with the world around them.
Explore our Animals Gallery
Unjudgmental, kind and gentle
Join the Straw Patch Project
The Straw Patch Project is open to everyone looking to nurture their mental health and wellbeing in a welcoming community setting. Whether you come for the gardening, the animals, or simply to share in the peace and positivity of Strawfields, we’re here to support your journey.
Get in touch to learn more or join one of our sessions—we can’t wait to welcome you to the Straw Patch family.