Supporting the wellbeing of Shooting Star Children's Hospices staff through nature connection.
The Dose of Nature team in Richmond were delighted to deliver a wellbeing workshop for staff from Shooting Star Children's Hospices at our beautiful Pensford Field site in Kew this week.
Shooting Star Children's Hospices provides vital psychosocial support to children and young people with life-limiting conditions and their families, as well as bereavement support following the death of a child, whether expected or unexpected. Their services span a remarkable range of support, from counselling and creative therapies to practical assistance and social opportunities for families navigating incredibly challenging circumstances.
Because of the emotional demands of this work, it is essential that staff also have opportunities to nurture their own wellbeing. Our workshop was designed to do exactly that, while also exploring ways that nature-based approaches might complement the support they provide to families.
Learning about the science of nature and wellbeing
The morning began with an interactive session exploring the growing evidence base for nature's role in supporting mental health and emotional wellbeing.
Together we looked at:
- The scientific evidence behind the mental health benefits of spending time in nature
- The latest research exploring why natural environments can be so restorative
- Examples of innovative nature-based wellbeing approaches from around the world
- Practical theories and techniques that can help people gain even greater benefits from time spent outdoors
By understanding the science behind nature connection, participants were able to reflect on how these principles might support both their personal wellbeing and professional practice.
Experiencing nature connection first-hand
Participants took part in a range of experiential activities designed to deepen their connection with the natural world. These included:
- Mindfulness activities to enhance the restorative effects of nature
- Sensory exercises using a wider range of senses to encourage richer engagement with the environment
- Meditative walking practices that support calm, presence, and connection
Experiencing these approaches first-hand allowed the team to explore simple, evidence-based wellbeing practices while spending meaningful time in the natural surroundings of Pensford Field.
Creating space for reflection and restoration
Those working in children's palliative care and bereavement support dedicate themselves to helping others through some of life's most difficult moments. We were privileged to spend time with the Shooting Star team, offering an opportunity for reflection, restoration, and reconnection through nature.
A huge thank you to everyone who took part and for the compassionate work you do every day to support children, young people, and families.
We look forward to continuing conversations about how nature-based wellbeing can support both staff wellbeing and the people they serve.
Interested in Collaborating with Dose of Nature?
At Dose of Nature, we love working with organisations, community groups, charities, heritage sites, and green spaces to create meaningful experiences that connect people with nature. Whether you're interested in hosting a mindfulness session, nature-based wellbeing workshop, creative outdoor activity, conservation event, or a bespoke programme for your community, we'd love to hear from you.
Our team has experience delivering evidence-based nature and wellbeing activities that support mental health, encourage creativity, and help people build deeper connections with the natural world.
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