Background to Programme:

The Wilderness Foundation run a range of programmes for young people and children experiencing challenges with mental health, behaviour and neurodiversity needs. Many of our young clients can present with all these challenges together but we are increasingly aware that we need to support those with neurodiversity in a more dedicated and focused way.

We have traditionally organised holiday camps and, recognising increasing needs for families and young people, we are running a specialist camp for those with neurodivergent needs. We will require advance bookings as groups will be small of no more than 8 participants.

The programme may include one of the following outdoor activities and skills such as cooking, art, bushcraft, nature walks, and crafts. We will also encourage positive social engagement and group skills, using a strength based approach which helps participants become more aware of what they do well.

Although we work as a group we are also adaptive to the individual needs of participants and aim to meet them ‘where they are at’. We do develop a behaviour contract, which everyone signs into and jointly forms, and this will be adhered to and adapted over the sessions.

We will be clear on not tolerating physical or verbal aggression towards others, bullying /discrimination, or behaviours that place the participant or others at risk. We will have a consequence clearly explained which will mean having to be collected and to go home.