Features / Bristol Charity Advent Calendar 2025
Bristol Charity Advent 2025, day 8: The Birch Collective
The Birch Collective is a social enterprise dedicated to helping young lives connect with nature and each other.
An idea born during the pandemic when anxiety and loneliness were on the rise worldwide, the founders recognised a gap in support for young adults transitioning to independence.
The trio of youth workers decided to come together to offer an alternative to traditional mental health interventions for young people in the form of nature-based programmes that blend skill-building with personal development.
The enterprise’s main activity hub is based at Strawberry Lane Community Garden in east Bristol – photo: Milan Perera
In 2024, the Birch Collective worked with nearly 200 people, many of whom were out of full-time work or education.
Based in Redfield, the enterprise’s Fresh Air Thursdays are a free, weekly land-skills program offering activities such as natural building, foraging, cooking and crafts.
The transformation witnessed in participants is a testament to their mission.
“I’ve seen young men arrive unable to make eye contact and within two weeks, they’re asking questions, engaging and taking initiative,” said marketing & communications coordinator James Broadley.
“Nature has a healing power that’s a fountain of hope and inspiration.”
For more information about the Birch Collective, visit www.thebirchcollective.co.uk
Main photo: Elliot Hingston
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