Evidence & Impact

At Woodcrafters, we are both practitioners and researchers. We deliver nature-based craft programmes that measurably improve mental health, strengthen communities, and foster environmental care — and we rigorously evaluate their impact. By collecting data, analysing outcomes, and sharing findings, we contribute to the growing evidence base for craft-for-wellbeing.

Our work demonstrates that traditional skills and nature connection are not only powerful therapeutic tools, but also scalable, evidence-driven interventions that can play a recognised role in public health, education, and community resilience.

Our Approach to Evidence

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Research

We review national and international evidence on craft, wellbeing, nature connection, and social prescribing.

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Insights

We collect and analyse data from every Woodcrafters programme, tracking outcomes and learning what makes the biggest difference.

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Stories

We listen to the voices of our participants and share their journeys through case studies, quotes, and lived experience.

Why This Work Matters

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The challenges facing people, communities, and the environment are urgent and interconnected. National data and local experience highlight a growing need for accessible, preventative approaches to wellbeing:

Mental health crisis – 1 in 6 children now has a diagnosable mental health condition, and adult referrals to NHS services are at record highs. Yet waiting lists stretch months or even years, leaving many without support.
Cuts to services – Ongoing reductions to NHS and local authority budgets mean fewer affordable, community-based wellbeing opportunities, particularly for those most in need.
Nature deficit disorder – Children spend less time outdoors than prison inmates, and access to green space is lowest for low-income and marginalised groups. This fuels anxiety, reduces resilience, and limits opportunities for healthy development.
School exclusions – Pupils with SEND are four times more likely to be excluded, creating long-term risks for attainment, wellbeing, and social outcomes.
Biodiversity loss – The UK is one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world. Without active community involvement, the ecological crisis will continue to worsen, impacting health as well as the environment.

Woodcrafters combines craft, nature, and community to tackle urgent challenges in mental health, social isolation, and ecological decline. Our programmes deliver measurable improvements in wellbeing, strengthen communities, and actively restore the natural environment. By filling evidence gaps in craft-for-wellbeing and offering a scalable, low-cost model, we provide a timely, impactful solution for people, communities, and planet.

Our Commitment

A woman and a man sitting in a lush green forest, engaged in a craft or outdoor activity, with the woman sitting on a chair and the man sitting on a hay bale. The woman is wearing glasses, a patterned shirt, and black skirt, while the man has a long beard, a cap, glasses, and is dressed in a plaid shirt and brown pants.

Woodcrafters is more than a provider of workshops; we are building a national movement for craft and wellbeing. Our commitment is grounded in accountability, inclusion, and innovation, ensuring that our work delivers meaningful change where it is most needed.

Robust Evaluation – Every programme is measured using a structured data evaluation toolkit, combining quantitative outcomes with qualitative participant feedback. This evidence informs practice, demonstrates impact, and builds the case for craft-for-wellbeing nationally.
Co-Production & Participant Leadership – Our programmes are co-designed with participants, families, and partners. We embed lived experience at every stage, ensuring participant voices not only shape delivery but also lead change within their communities.
Community Engagement – We prioritise inclusion, removing barriers to access and ensuring that those most affected by health inequalities, isolation, and exclusion can participate fully.
Knowledge Sharing & Sector Leadership – We contribute to the growing evidence base for craft and wellbeing by publishing findings, engaging with funders and partners, and sharing best practice across disciplines.
Scalable Impact – Through facilitator training, toolkits, and digital resources, we are creating a model that is sustainable, replicable, and capable of embedding craft-for-wellbeing across health, education, and community settings.

Our approach ensures that Woodcrafters remains accountable, evidence-led, and pioneering — combining the rigour of a research-led organisation with the authenticity of a grassroots movement.

Our Research Partners