About the event

Seasons of Connection is a scheme of activities and workshops which aims to offer residents of the Coalfields area access to a better understanding of the local environment through nature-based activities.

The events, which form part of a co-operative project between Durham Wildlife Trust and Sunderland City Council, comprise 15 seasonal sessions, through which participants will reconnect with nature and each other, improving wellbeing and confidence. Activities include guided walks, wildlife surveys, crafting, nature journaling, and light conservation tasks, all themed around the changing seasons.

The July sessions take us through some of the meadow habitats to explore the unseen life that thrives there

In session # 1 we will undertake a grass-sweep to find out what species of insects are using Rainton through the summer. We will survey a selection of different meadow types and consider whether certain species are showing favoured plants. 

For session 2 – we will return to the meadows and continue surveying them – but we will also harvest some grasses and reeds to try some small scale thatching for one of our wildlife huts.

Following this, we will return to the centre for a tea or coffee and to discuss the importance of what we have found and consider its significance in the context of the wider reserve – clue – no invertebrates = larger animals or birds so (as with the April pond dips) the findings really ARE important! We will then log our findings on the iNaturalist app

Other sessions planned through to September include pond dipping, butterfly walks, and coastal wildlife surveys. 

Attendees will take part in hands-on activities like willow feeder making, leaf rubbings, and light habitat care. 

We will reflect and create with nature journaling to capture observations and experiences.

Interactive elements:

• Practical conservation tasks.
• Creative nature crafts.
• Group discussions and wellbeing activities. 

What to bring:

• Comfortable outdoor clothing and sturdy footwear.
• Your free nature journal (to be provided at your first session). 

Booking & safety:

• Booking required via Durham Wildlife Trust website or Eventbrite.
• Carers welcome for participants needing one-to-one support.  

Refreshments 

• Light refreshments provided at each session. 

Seasons of Connection: Nature, Community & Wellbeing is a 9-month programme, funded by Sunderland City Council, designed to reduce loneliness and social isolation among adults (16+) in Sunderland’s Coalfield area.