A WOODLAND well-being project has sprung some new shoots ahead of spring.

And the green-fingered organisers are inviting women from across the region to pull on their waterproofs and join in.

Following the success of a teenage mental-health project 'Wild about Wellbeing' over the past two years, Nature Unlimited is back with a new programme aimed at the grown-ups.

Last week they launched Wild About Women’s Wellbeing in Galashiels.

And throughout this spring and summer they aim to host a range of activities such as upcycling old pallets into raised flower and fruit beds, cooking on the campfire, walking in the woods, and learning about nature.

Geraldine Keita, who will be leading the programme, told us: “We are delighted to be able to offer a programme, specifically for women, which is different from the usual mental health support on offer in the Borders.

"Getting out into nature is of huge benefit to wellbeing and we are very lucky to have a wealth of beautiful, freely accessible woodland resources on our doorstep.”

The initial project for teenagers was regarded as a major success with girls reporting increased confidence, resilience and wellbeing - and it also led to an improved attendance at school.

The new course is open to anyone aged 16 or over, who feels that they would benefit from being part of a supportive community, connecting with nature and being active in the outdoors

Wild About Women’s Wellbeing will be based at the Focus Centre in Galashiels and make use of the nearby Policies as well as woodlands at Drygrange near Earlston.

Charlotte Maberly from Nature Unlimited added: "The Wild About Women's Wellbeing programme is very much in line with our other offerings - some of which are based at Drygrange Community Woodland, schools, others woodlands and other outdoor spaces.

"Nature Unlimited work with children and families, schools, young people and adults, supporting them to build resilience and improve their wellbeing through nature connection and group work in woodlands across the Scottish Borders.

"Having the chance to reconnect with nature can have a profound effect on our wellbeing and mental health, and we do hope that more people can benefit from the services we offer."

Organisers believe the new programme will benefit women who may be struggling to cope with the everyday demands of life.

As well as enjoying bushcraft and other woodland activities, the sessions allow women to come together and share their worries, to learn new skills and gain a sense of achievement.

The new programme is due to start in April.

If you would like to volunteer or participate on Wild About Women's Wellbeing, or any of their other Nature Unlimited programmes, contact Tara Bolland on 07579 217794 or email tara@natureunlimited.scot.