New nature therapy programme harnesses the power of waterways to support mental health in Bradford

A pioneering new programme is using the natural beauty of Bradford’s waterways to support mental health and wellbeing, thanks to funding from the People’s Postcode Lottery.

The ‘water ways nature connection programme’ has been developed in partnership with Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust and The Canal and River Trust and is delivered as part of their community roots initiative. Designed to help participants develop a deeper connection with nature, the programme encourages mindfulness, sensory engagement, and creative reflection along local canals and rivers.

The programme evolved from a series of nature walks created for people under the care of Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust’s community mental health teams and Mind in Bradford, which highlighted the need to introduce people to nature as a tool for wellbeing. The sessions are structured to encourage participants to slow down, observe, and engage with their natural surroundings.

Sharron Bright-Community Engagement Coordinator at the Canal and River Trust said: “Being in blue spaces has proven benefits and I’ve seen first-hand the incredible changes that it can bring to people’s physical and mental wellbeing. It is a powerful tool in improving mental health; whether it’s the movement of the water, the quality of the surrounding ozone, the reflected light or being absorbed in nature, being near water invokes a greater sense of calm. It promotes gratitude and resilience and encourages a more focused use of the senses.”

Over six to eight weeks, participants take part in guided meditative walks, observation activities, and creative journaling exercises. They document their experiences in a way that resonates with them—whether through poetry, photography, sketching, or simple reflection. The programme runs four times a year, adapting to the changing seasons to provide fresh experiences throughout the year.

As part of the project members of staff from the Canal and River Trust have also held sessions on the wards at Airedale Centre for Mental Health to introduce patients to canal environments through virtual reality, quizzes, and traditional canal art. One participant was so inspired that she set a goal to visit the canal once she was well enough. After her discharge, she became an active participant in the water ways programme and now uses nature connection as part of her recovery journey.

Joe Courtney, Green Therapy Project Developer, from Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust said, ‘Spending time in nature has proven benefits for mental health, reducing stress, improving mood, and fostering a sense of connection.’ ‘This programme allows participants to slow down, engage their senses, and truly experience the natural world around them. Many people find that developing a deeper connection with nature can provide comfort, perspective, and a renewed sense of purpose.’

The long-term vision for the programme is to create a legacy of environmental stewardship and mental wellbeing in local communities. Participants will be encouraged to continue their engagement with nature, with opportunities to become volunteers for the Canal and River Trust and take part in other outdoor initiatives