Nicki’s story: finding hope in nature
When Nicki* joined Roots to Wellbeing, she was in crisis. “I was made homeless, and I’d never experienced something like this before. My head was working overtime,” she said. Her GP connected her to a social prescriber, who suggested taking part in something regular and restorative. That suggestion turned out to be life-changing.
“She thought it would be a good idea for me to do something – and she was right.”
*Photos not of the individual to protect privacy
A nerve-wracking Start – and a warm welcome
Nicki was nervous about joining a group. “I’m not good at groups,” she said. “But I thought, got to give it a try.” From the first session, she felt at ease. “It was just relaxing. Everyone was so welcoming and friendly – and we had fun, really, didn’t we?”
“I actually really enjoyed it. It wasn’t the soup!” she joked.
“But I’d eaten something cooked, and everyone listened. If you didn’t want to speak, you could just sit and listen.”
Time out that made a big difference
The weekly sessions became something to look forward to. “It gave me a bit of time out. Even though it’s just two and a half hours, it made a difference.” Over time, she noticed real improvements in her physical and mental health. “I’m a bit fitter. I never used to be able to walk up through Brickfields, and now I’ve got used to it.”
The biggest shift was in her mood and mindset. “I think I would have sunk lower if I hadn’t been going. It gave me something else to concentrate on.”
The power of parks – and a sense of purpose
Being in the park made all the difference. “The park definitely adds something,” Nicki said. The gardening activities gave her a new sense of purpose and connection. “You’re giving something back – you’re helping nature.” She’s even started spending more time outdoors on her own. “I’ve been wandering around, sitting up there in the evenings. The park is lovely.”
She also found herself connecting more with others – chatting with strangers, offering help, feeling part of something again. “Everyone can be included – which is really important.”
Building connections – and finding hope
For Nicki, the kindness and community she found at Roots to Wellbeing became a turning point.
“The friendliness, how welcoming people are – that feels quite important.
Helping each other. Making each other cups of tea.
It makes you understand it’s not just you with problems.”
Her message to anyone wondering whether to give it a go?
“Give it a chance – you’ll be surprised. There is hope.”
