Brickmakers Wood Ipswich

Unmanaged and self-seeded, it sadly became a haven for illicit activities, including drug use and dealing, prostitution, and persistent fly-tipping. This overlooked space offered little value to wildlife and was marred by drug-related debris and piles of discarded rubbish. Located within one of England’s top 10% most deprived areas, where the community faced high unemployment and limited access to nature due to a high proportion of flats, Brickmakers Wood held untapped potential.

Today, the story of Brickmakers Wood is one of remarkable transformation, driven by the dedication of volunteers, disengaged young people, individuals living with complex health challenges, and our passionate team. With minimal funding and an unwavering commitment to sustainability, we have breathed new life into this vital green space. Through tireless efforts, we have removed years of neglect, revealing the woodland’s inherent beauty. We have crafted three thriving wildlife ponds, established essential pathways and steps for accessibility, and installed three eco-friendly compost toilets. The landscape now flourishes with a diverse array of ground cover, shrubs, and trees, punctuated by inviting glades perfect for group activities. Our collective efforts have built greenhouses, communal seating areas, fire pits, and outdoor cooking spaces. Additionally, we have secured the entire site with fencing and CCTV to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors.

This incredible journey culminates in our newest creation: The Eden-Rose Centre and therapeutic forest garden, set to open its gates on May 31st. We are filled with immense excitement to finally share this enhanced sanctuary with you, showcasing the power of community, dedication, and the restorative embrace of nature.

Achievements at Brickmakers Wood!

Programmes & Activities

Enhancing Children’s Mental Health
Since we began our journey at Brickmakers Wood and our charitable efforts in Ipswich, we have had the privilege of creating 1,238 individual opportunities for disengaged young people. These opportunities allowed them to access vital non-mainstream education and mental health support, and we truly believe that this engagement made a meaningful difference in their lives.

While some young people may have participated in multiple sessions, each interaction offered them a vital space to discuss their challenges, develop coping mechanisms, and feel heard.

Fulfilling Volunteering Opportunities
Since undertaking stewardship of Brickmakers Wood, we have delivered 2989 meaningful volunteering sessions within nature, positively impacting both the health of the woodland and the well-being of our volunteers, particularly those with complex health issues.

Corporate volunteering
Since we started the transformation of Brickmakers Wood, we have provided 1,066 individual corporate volunteering opportunities. These sessions utilised the restorative power of nature to enhance the well-being of corporate teams while collaboratively improving a valuable green space. We understand how important team bonding and stress relief can be, and it’s heartening to see how these experiences have not only fostered connection but also contributed to the success of one company, helping them secure a prestigious award.

Women’s Woodland Wellbeing
At Brickmakers Wood, we understand the challenges many women face, which is why we are proud to offer our Women’s Woodland Well-Being service. To date, we have created 182 unique opportunities for women to learn new skills and access vital mental health support in a nurturing natural environment. Our holistic approach is designed to foster a profound sense of accomplishment through skill-building, promote emotional resilience through the healing power of nature, and create a safe, restorative space where everyone can feel supported and empowered on their journey to well-being.

Life Skills for Women
Our newly launched initiative has already empowered 45 women with essential life skills, along with practical skills in woodwork. We are encouraged by this initial engagement and are committed to creating more opportunities for women to participate in and benefit from this vital program.

Tranquil green space used for private hire
At Brickmakers Wood, we understand the profound calming effects that nature can bring, especially during challenging times like the pandemic. Our tranquil green space has served as a sanctuary for over 100 community initiatives, offering a haven for those seeking solace and connection. Over the years, it has provided essential support for various activities, from joyful singing groups to immersive learning experiences in adult and children’s forest schools and a quiet respite for individuals and their families managing complex health issues.

We are excited to announce the grand opening of our new Cancer and community Centre, ‘The Eden-Rose Centre, ‘ and Therapeutic Forest Garden, ‘The ECOgarden,’ on May 31st. These will further enhance Brickmakers Wood’s vibrant offerings. We look forward to welcoming everyone!

Awards
Our corporate volunteer partnership with local business Haven Power won them the Edie 2018 award for CSR, Charity and. Community Initiative of the year.

Groundworks Community award 2018 – We won Best Community Garden Award/Green Space at the Houses of Parliament

www.groundworkawards.org.uk

In 2021 we won B&Q Best Community Garden
www.eadt.co.uk

If you can help in any way at all, please get in touch on 0800 772 3755.