UWTSD’s Centre for Social Innovation Leads the Way in Nature-Based Wellness Across West Wales

The University of Wales Trinity Saint David’s (UWTSD) Centre for Social Innovation (CfSI) has launched an inspiring new initiative designed to help people reconnect with the natural world,  and, in doing so, improve wellbeing across communities.

The Developing Nature Leadership programme gives professionals working in health, care, and community roles the confidence and skills to use nature as a tool for wellness. By encouraging more people to notice, move, and connect in nature, the programme aims to reduce stress and anxiety, strengthen relationships, and create healthier, more resilient communities.

James Moore, Programme Lead at CfSI said: 

“We are delighted that the Centre For Social Innovation allows us to build on the evaluation and learning of how we help people be more well by moving in nature. Supporting local people and groups to feel more confident to help others be well by being outdoors, the Nature Leadership Programme has already shown significant impact. 

“There’s a growing body of evidence that time in nature supports physical, emotional, and social wellbeing. What makes this work exciting is seeing people who already support others in their communities gain the confidence to weave nature into what they do, and watching the ripple effect it creates. By challenging how things are done, we can turn health and wellness on its head in West Wales!”

CfSI’s team brings years of experience delivering evidence-based wellness programmes, including the Academi Wales “Explore and Walk” initiative, Hywel Dda Health Board’s “Shades of Green” wellbeing walks, and a range of nature-based training at UWTSD.

A recent partnership with Neath Port Talbot’s Local Nature Partnership has been particularly impactful. Through the Working With Nature project, CfSI supported local residents to become Community Nature Leaders, helping them inspire others and create long-term, sustainable change.

The Developing Nature Leadership programme blends practical learning and leadership development. Participants explore how nature supports wellness, practice facilitative leadership styles, gain ecological understanding, and lead group nature walks, building real confidence along the way.

This year, CfSI will extend its support across Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, and Pembrokeshire, working with health and social care teams to tailor the programme to local needs. The Carmarthenshire Social Prescribing Team will complete a two-day version of the course designed to help them integrate nature more directly into their work.

Participants leave with a deeper understanding of how to use nature to support wellbeing, not just for others, but for themselves too. The focus is on creating confident, connected community leaders who can inspire change long after the training ends.

For more information or to explore how CfSI can support your organisation, contact James Moore at j.moore@uwtsd.ac.uk.

Further Information

Lowri Thomas

Principal Communications and PR Officer     
Corporate Communications and PR     
Email: lowri.thomas@uwtsd.ac.uk     
Phone: 07449 998476