Branching Out
Branching Out is an outdoor nature based programme of activities for any adult 16+ who use mental health, alcohol and drugs services or have a long term health condition in Dumfries and Galloway.
Branching Out is delivered by the DGOWL group in partnership with Scottish Forestry, Dumfries and Galloway Health and Social Care Partnership and Dumfries and Galloway Council.
Find out more information about Branching Out by clicking here
Branching Out – Referral Inclusion Criteria
Branching Out is for adults 18+ living in Dumfries and Galloway who;
- Are receiving support from mental health services and organisations
- Are recovery ready from problem substance use
- Have one or more health conditions
- Feel socially isolated
- Are resettling from another country
- Have experienced domestic abuse
- Want to improve Numeracy skills
Branching Out – Programme Details
Branching Out is a 12 week programme for a group of 12 participants.
Each week, participants will take part in 3 hours of woodland activities (see below for example activities).
Branching Out – Activities
Activities are adapted to suit the group, site and time of year, and may include:
- nature connection activities such as sit spots, listening to birds, and relaxing in hammocks
- putting up a tarpaulin shelter
- fire lighting, foraging and campfire cooking
- environmental art such as photography and willow sculptures
- conservation activities such as rhododendron clearance and bird box construction
- gentle exercise such as a short walk and some stretches or tai chi
On completion of the programme participants receive a certificate of achievement.
Branching Out – How much does it cost?
Branching Out is free as programmes are funded by the UK Government. Participants are provided with waterproofs, boots and socks that will be theirs to keep.
Tea, coffee, biscuits and parking are provided at no cost.
Support with transport can be provided.
Branching Out – Making a Referral
Referrals are welcome from all local;
- Mental health clinical and community services/organisations
- Alcohol and Drugs services and organisations
- Services and organisations supporting people with long term health condition(s)
Alternatively, you can self-refer into Branching Out if you meet the referral inclusion criteria stated above. If you are unsure or would like more information, please email DGOWL.
A service/organisation referral and self-referral form is available below.
Branching Out_Service Referral Form
Branching Out_Self Referral Form
NHS staff emailing Branching Out with any confidential information must add [SECURE] to the email subject line to encrypt the information, this means it cannot be opened by anyone else if it is intercepted.
On receipt of your referral form, Branching Out will confirm your place. Please do not attend unless you have had a place confirmed by DGOWL. All personal information is treated in the strictest of confidence.
Branching Out – Where and When?
Dates, times and venues for current Branching Out Programs can be found here.
Venue Details – Accessibility and Toilet Provision
Please email DGOWL with any questions regarding venues and accessibility. Every effort will be made to remove barriers to participation (e.g. programme duration, transport etc).
Branching Out – Service Information
A member of the Branching Out Team will contact with you on receipt of your referral form, to confirm your place and provide more details.
Services can request a small group taster session. Please email DGOWL.
Branching Out – Participant Information
Starting a new programme can feel daunting. Don’t worry, our Branching Out Leaders will create a relaxed and informal environment.
Participants will be invited to attend an optional online Zoom session to find out more about Branching Out before it starts. You are welcome to bring someone with you to the meeting.
Meeting the instructors:
The video below provides some really helpful information about coming prepared to Branching Out.
The final video lets you hear from previous participants about their experiences of Branching Out.
Branching Out – More information
For more information on Branching Out please email DGOWL