Community group to create outdoor space for women settling into the UK
They say being among nature can help people feel at home while adjusting to a new life
Transition Lighthouse Empowerment Space is one of 11 community groups receiving funding from Oxfordshire County Council as part of a climate action initiative.
The group said it will be using the money to install an outdoor facility - a yurt - in its wellbeing garden in Blackbird Leys to serve communities who face barriers in accessing nature rich spaces.
Nicole Shodunke, founder of Transition Lighthouse Empowerment Space, explained how it can be difficult for people in the group from different backgrounds to adjust to a new life in this country.
"Most of us are not from England and most of us know about soil, touching a tree or being barefoot on the ground from our homes. But when we came here we had to navigate the health system and education system," Nicole said.
She added that it is especially challenging when people no longer have the comfort of nature outside their door: "It's hard unless we have a garden or we can access the front of our house where we can plant a flower or two, but that's about all."
The group supports women who have experienced trauma and believe that connecting with the nature can help them recover.
Nicole said: "With this project, we realised that the people who attend these groups really value and welcome the time spent in nature. It serves as a point of healing."
Transition Lighthouse Empowerment Space run regular women’s workshops in Blackbird Leys including trauma education, cooking projects and health awareness sessions for vulnerable migrants, refugees, asylum seekers or local residents in need.
They also help women grow food from small herbs to vegetables like carrots and potatoes in the wellbeing garden ready for a meal at the end of the season.
Nicole said that the £1,700 grant will contribute to a yurt fit for 15-20 women whenever they need.
She believes the funding has come at a good time as they will be able to continue their outdoor services during the winter.
While securing funding for the yurt is a step forward, Nicole said there are more local communities in need of their services and hopes to expand the group's reach across Oxfordshire.