How can I request a Nature Buddy?
Information for health care professionals who wish to refer clients to our Nature Buddy service. Search for an activity provider offering Nature Buddy support using our Activity Finder.
Who can access the Nature Buddies service?
Anyone who is over 18 and currently faces barriers to accessing and enjoying nature for their wellbeing can access our Nature Buddies service. Your client must be ready to take active steps to work towards reaching their nature-inspired goals, which will include exploring ways to engage in nature that is meaningful to them, willing to try new things and be social with others.
Nature Buddies cannot provide physical mobility support. Some Nature Buddies may be able to provide transport, though this will be dependent on the volunteering policies of the organisations managing the Nature Buddies.
Organisation based Nature Buddies
Find an activity provider offering Nature Buddies and details on how to make a referral.
Community Nature Buddies
Find out about the support our Community Nature Buddies provide and details on how to make a referral into this service.
Referral Criteria and Guidelines
If you would like to make a referral, please firstly read our Referral Criteria and Guidelines around the Nature Buddies service to ensure your referral is suitable for the service. Adults can be referred by a professional.
Once your referral is received, the Organisation or Volunteer Centre Dorset will contact you to gather additional information and arrange a suitable volunteer buddy to support the participant in attending the outdoor activity. Typically, 4–6 supported sessions are agreed upon.
The buddy will then contact the participant to introduce themselves and arrange a meeting time and place. They will provide support for the agreed number of sessions to help the participant attend the activity or achieve a specific goal.
The buddy will report on progress, and the organisation aims to check in with all participants within 2–4 weeks after the buddy support ends.
Please note: there may be a waiting period for a Nature Buddy.
Have a question?
Please email Kate and Jules at stepin2nature@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk or call Kate on 01305 228246. Please note Kate and Jules are part time and may not get back to you immediately. Thank you for your patience.
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