Our Findings
What we are developing through practice
At Woodcrafters, every workshops, programme and event is an opportunity to listen, reflect, and learn. By combining participant feedback, structured evaluation, and community voices, and combining it with evidenced based research, we are building a clear picture of how craft and nature-based programmes change lives. Our findings demonstrate measurable improvements in wellbeing, learning, and connection — while also highlighting where more support and investment is needed.
Key Outcomes
For Children & Young People (SEND and schools)
3 in 4 children show improved focus, regulation, and engagement with learning.
Teachers and SENDCos report increased confidence, resilience, and calmer behaviour in class.
Families note reduced anxiety and more positive relationships at home.
“We saw improvements in regulation and a real sense of achievement — these sessions gave our pupils a place to succeed.” – SENDCo, Devon
For Adults
87% of adults report improved mental wellbeing.
9 in 10 feel more confident, resilient, and better able to manage stress.
80% report reduced isolation and stronger social bonds.
“Carving gave me a reason to get out of the house and meet others. It’s been life-changing.” – Adult participant
For Communities
40+ workshops delivered in the last year, engaging 250+ participants.
12 NHS-linked sessions delivered through social prescribing pathways.
Inclusive, low-cost provision reducing barriers for those most affected by inequality.
For the Environment
500+ trees planted and 300m of hedgerows restored through Crafting Nature Recovery.
All timber sustainably sourced, supporting local ecosystems.
Participants report stronger motivation to care for the natural world.
“I’d never planted a tree before. Now I want to do more for the land where I live.” – Community participant
What We’re Learning
Through evaluation and reflection, we have identified key insights:
Craft as regulation: The slow, mindful rhythm of carving helps children and adults manage anxiety and focus.
Low-cost, high-impact: In the face of cuts to NHS services, accessible craft-for-wellbeing provides affordable, preventative support.
Participant voice matters: Co-producing sessions with children, families, and adults leads to higher engagement and deeper impact.
Nature connection is essential: Being active participants in caring for land (planting, restoring, crafting) strengthens both wellbeing and ecological resilience.
Scalability is possible: With facilitator training and toolkits, our model can grow to meet demand nationally.
Our Commitment
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.
Moving Forward
Our findings highlight both the transformative power of craft and nature and the urgent need for more provision. Cuts to services, barriers to nature access, and a lack of affordable wellbeing opportunities mean many are still excluded. By sharing our outcomes openly, we aim to strengthen the evidence base for craft-for-wellbeing and ensure more people can access its benefits.
Our Research Partners
