Tackling loneliness and isolation by the waterways
Loneliness and isolation are serious issues, facing ever increasing numbers of people in the UK. In this film, waterways charity Canal & River Trust, which looks after 2,000 waterways in England and Wales, highlights its ‘From Isolation to Inclusion (I2I)’ projects which aim to tackle those issues through immersion in natural landscapes and crafts.
Sharron Bright, who ran the I2I project, explains: ‘The project began post-lockdown when many people were stuck at home or scared to go out. The pandemic compounded problems for people already struggling with anxiety, depression or other mental health issues, often linked to a complex range of issues like ill-health, addiction issues, unemployment, financial struggles or family issues.
‘We worked with the local NHS Care Partnership to encourage GPs to prescribe time together by the water, rather than medication. By taking part in nature walks, wild foraging, bushcraft, boat trips, or poetry days, people can make friends, find a place to talk and that helps build confidence and resilience. On the towpath you walk side by side, with no eye-contact, and that can help people open up and tell their story. We’ve seen so many lives transformed, and as their love for life returns, some go on to volunteer for us.’
This film has been entered in the MPB Geographical Better World Video Awards. See all the entries and the winners.
