Bee-ing happy at work!

Abi, our volunteer coordinator, recently visited Dutch Farm, our urban accessible farm in South Liverpool. Not only is it a green, serene space for people we support to get involved in outdoor activities that focus on spending time in nature, looking after our planet, taking care of our wellbeing, but it’s also home to the Dutch Farm beehive. 

The hive is managed by dedicated volunteer bee guardians - people who have accessed support on the farm, taken part in our beekeeping courses and now give their time to make sure the hives continue to thrive. They’re also really passionate about sharing their love of the bees and introducing people to the wonderful world of beekeeping. 

There’s a buzz on the farm  

Abi was welcomed onto the farm, where there was a buzz of excitement as she got ready to trial our brand-new ‘Bee Happy Experience’. A guided session with our amazing volunteer bee guardians. They started with an introduction session, where Abi was able to learn all about the brilliance of bees.  

Suited and booted  

Once she was suited and booted in her bee suit, she was given a guided tour of one of the hives. Not only was she blown away being up close and personal with the bees (respectfully of course!), but she was reminded of how awesome our volunteers really are. Their passion, love and respect for the bees is unmistakable and truly brought the whole experience to life. 

Abi said: ‘What makes the bee experience even more special is how these experiences are now being woven into our wellbeing services. Working with the bees has become a powerful way to support mental health and wellbeing, offering calm, purpose, and connection to nature for those accessing our services.’ 

From being supported to supporting others  

Lots of people who come through our wellbeing service then go on to become volunteers within the service. They want to share their experience, knowledge and enthusiasm with people who were once in the same position as they were – new to the service, and often, new to spending time outdoors and connecting with people and nature.  

Abi also said: ‘Seeing the programme, and the truly supportive and uplifting community they’ve created, is so inspiring. I’ve had the best day full of learning, connecting and seeing the real impact nature and people can have on one another. It’s been one of those “pinch me, is this really my job?” kind of days!’

Next steps  

Now that Abi’s completed the first trial, we’ll be looking at how we can roll this out across the service, so watch this space!  

Wellbeing support at PSS  

At our PSS Wellbeing Centres, as part of the Upbeat Liverpool service, we run lots of brilliant groups where you can get support with how you're feeling, learn new techniques, strategies and skills to cope, and put a plan in place for how we can move forward together. 
 
All of our groups are free, inclusive and designed to improve your mental health and wellbeing day-by-day. 

Find out more here