For the past few weeks, Welcome House has been running a project called ‘Nature, Food and Friendship.’ When we walked over the Humber Bridge, it had been raining heavily but eased off as we set foot on the bridge. Thick fog hung over the river and there was not much of a view, but our participants were exhilarated by the fresh air, the sense of boundlessness and being suspended high above the river. We practiced mindfulness such as deep breathing, stretching and shouting into the fog.
We practiced mindfulness exercises
Our walk participants said: “Today, it was an outstanding day in my life. I went to visit Humber bridge. Thank you so much, this type of trip must be continued. This is not only walk, but also important for communicating with each other, learning and experience,” “Today I saw new places in the nature, I tasted real happiness and thank you for everything,” and “Today it was very special day for for me because we were in the outside and we spent a good time crossing from Humber Bridge to Barton. For me I very enjoyed, it will remain in my memories. I have a lot of thanks for the organisers.”
We also visited Hornsea for a seaside walk. We collected pebbles, breathed in the salt air and watched dogs racing on the beach.
Participants said: “From the moment I reached the sea, everything I saw made me so happy. This was the first experience like this in my life, I saw people and dogs play and enjoy at the side of the sea; this was also beautiful.” We enjoyed walking near the sea and collecting gorgeous stones. Finally we ate a good meal together. Thank you.” “Today I really enjoyed every moment. We explored Hornsea, collected stones on the beach, played games and watched some dogs racing. It was very, very amazing.”
We chose pebbles on the beach to remember our trip by.
Projects like Nature, Food and Friendship, along with the Welcome House Photoclub, produce strong wellbeing outcomes for the participants, which in turn aids integration into the host community and eventual benefit to wider society.
Participants report increased happiness, reduced stress, feeling relaxed and refreshed and greater life motivation.
Their increased social connection includes making new friends, building networks, feeling part of a supportive group, improved and communication and confidence.
Community Integration:
For several participants, this project is their first visit to major local landmarks or the seaside, strengthening their sense of belonging, their familiarity with the local area and their pride in place.
Physical Activity Promotion
Walks include substantial step counts (10,000+ steps in some sessions), encouraging
active lifestyles, outdoor engagement and healthy routines.
Our walks begin with a bus ride on public transport, which helps our participants learn how to get around independently and helps them integrate into the local community.