Open Up provides funding for nature initiative for young mothers

Posted by Devon Partnership Trust in Charity, Mental health, News, Recovery and wellbeing on 10th February, 2025

The Babes in the Woods programme has been transforming the lives of new mothers and their babies by providing a safe, nurturing and calming outdoor environment to support emotional wellbeing. Thanks to funding from the Little Something Fund at our charity Open Up, this initiative has been able to thrive, offering a much-needed escape into nature for mums who are being supported by our perinatal mental health team.

A Space for connection and healing
Held monthly at Dainton Copse Forest School in Ipplepen, Devon, Babes in the Woods offers an immersive experience where mothers and their babies can relax, connect and enjoy the benefits of being in nature. Activities include woodland exploration, fireside gatherings, creative crafts, mindfulness sessions and simply ‘being’ in a natural space away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

A hammock and seating area at the Dainton Copse Forest school (above)

The transformative power of nature
Research has shown that spending time in nature can significantly reduce stress and improve mental wellbeing. The Babes in the Woods programme embodies these principles, offering a supportive and restorative environment where mothers can take a moment for themselves while bonding with their children.

Feedback from the sessions highlights these benefits with mothers saying:

• “Being outside provided a time and space away from stressful and hectic lives.”
• “The calming atmosphere, the sounds of the woods and the open space made a huge difference to my mood.”
• “It felt easier than being inside; my baby seemed much more settled.”

The outdoor cooking area in the woods (above left) and a crafting session gets underway (above right)

Building confidence and community
Beyond the personal wellbeing benefits, Babes in the Woods has helped mothers build confidence in taking their babies outside. One mother said: “Although getting out with my little one had been a source of anxiety, these sessions have shown me how easy and enjoyable it can be. Thank you for giving me the confidence to go out with him—and enjoy it!”

The programme has also fostered a sense of community, with many participants forming friendships and continuing to meet outside of the organised sessions. A young mother said: “I loved being able to talk and mix with different mums.”

A lasting impact, thanks to Open Up
Selina Dare, Occupational Therapy Lead and Project Lead for Perinatal Services, highlighted the significance of Open Up’s support: “The funding has allowed us to create a space where mums can reconnect with themselves, and each other, in a way that conventional health and social care services often struggle to provide. We’ve seen first-hand how time in nature can help reduce anxiety, improve mood and strengthen the bond between mother and baby. This work is life-changing.”

With continued support, Babes in the Woods aims to reach even more mothers and babies, providing a sanctuary where they can experience the healing power of nature, build confidence, and find joy in the simple moments.

If you would like to make a donation to support projects like these, please click on our donate button.

For more information on our charity's impact or if you have any questions, please get in touch with Open Up at dpt.openup@nhs.net or via our contact form on the website. Thank you.