We won!
It has been such a busy summer for our small team, but we are reflecting on some of our achievements. Back in June were were so thrilled to be named the winner of the Best Nature-Based (Green & Blue) Social Prescribing Project at the 2024 Social Prescribing Awards! The 2024 Social Prescribing Awards is hosted by the Social Prescribing Network, National Academy for Social Prescribing and the College of Medicine and was created to recognise and celebrate the wealth of innovative social prescribing projects and schemes running throughout the UK and internationally.
This recognition celebrates the profound impact that Open Minds Active's Wild Swimming for Wellbeing project has had on participants' mental and physical health. This award acknowledges our commitment to helping communities access the outdoors through innovative, nature-based solutions like wild swimming. Our programmes provide not only the physical benefits of cold-water therapy but also foster deep connections with nature and one another, offering a holistic approach to wellbeing.
About Open Minds Active CIC
Open Minds Active is a community led social enterprise run by collective of passionate individuals committed to helping people reconnect with nature. Our mission is simple: to is to deliver movement based wellbeing activities across Bristol and South Gloucestershire to increase nature connectedness, improve mental health and reduce social isolation. Our dedicated team create a fun and inclusive community where everyone is welcome.
As a winner a special tree was planted in honour of Open Minds Active CIC as a symbol of the organisation’s enduring connection to nature and its long-lasting impact on both individuals and the environment. Liz Dunn, Programme Manager at Open Minds Active said; “I have seen first hand how the programme has impacted our participants. The positive changes in their wellbeing happen so quickly as they’re trying something totally new and brave. Having a shared experience in a beautiful natural space with others is magic.”
Liz and Maggy collecting the award in June in London
As we celebrate this achievement, we’re excited about continuing to grow our community, create new opportunities, and expand the positive impacts of nature-based social prescribing.