Otterhead Lakes practical task group

A regular group, undertaking conservation activities at Otterhead Lakes, has been set up to support people less able to access physical outdoor tasks. Working with Forestry England and Otterhead Lakes partners, we have established a group of approximately 12 people. Those attending come from various services in Chard and Taunton Deane, including Green Days Day Care that supports adults with learning disabilities. This group is in turn supported by volunteers drawn from the local community who help create a friendly and supportive environment.

This is all part of our Nature and Wellbeing project headed up by project officer, Kristen Lambert. Somerset Public Health has teamed up with Blackdown Hills AONB, Mendip Hills AONB and Quantock Hills AONB to help members of the local community make the most of Somerset’s AONBs by participating in activities that improve their physical and mental wellbeing.

The activities at Otterhead Lakes are also supported by Sammy Fraser, who is the volunteer coordinator working across Somerset’s three AONBs. Sammy has been involving local people in volunteering in the AOBNs and building connections between volunteers and community organisations that need their support.

Involving people from various walks of life creates a sense of connectedness across our community. It also helps us strengthen and amplify what we can achieve, helping us all to enjoy and care for our wonderful countryside.