Since the COVID outbreak, two things have become clear: how much we rely on nature and how much we rely on our frontline workers.

Day in and day out, we’ve seen them bravely and selflessly risk their lives to care for the most vulnerable members of society.

But what if I told you 92% of emergency workers have suffered mental health problems? That most workers have considered leaving due to poor mental health?

We wanted to find a way to give back, supporting both nature and our frontline services. We believe our new Sanctuary Project will achieve both.

Engaging people with the landscape has always been a core part of what we do. Set on our land at Mike’s Wood, our Project will reconnect frontline workers with nature. Using the proven benefits of green spaces to boost mental and physical wellbeing, we’ll run a series of three-day retreats, combining conservation work with outdoor activities in a tranquil, therapeutic setting.

Through activities participants will be encouraged to use nature to rebuild their resilience and cope with the demands of these unprecedented times. Of course, nature will benefit too. Activities such as tree planting will help protect and enhance the precious landscapes of the Lake District.

Nature helped many of us cope with the COVID-crisis. It reduced stress, recharged batteries and boosted resilience. Please donate what you can to support our Sanctuary Project.

Douglas Chalmers

Chief Executive, Friends of the Lake District