We were honoured to attend the opening of Lindengate’s new Community and Education Hub on 19th June – a vibrant space for nature-based learning, wellbeing, and intergenerational connection.
Thanks to a £50,000 grant from Mike Clare via the Founders Fund, and ongoing bespoke support through our CHAT programme, The Clare Foundation has proudly supported Lindengate’s leadership over several years as this vision became reality.
Lindengate supports and works with a wide range of people who are being impacted by their mental health needs on a day to day basis as well as people living with memory loss and dementia and young people who have social and emotional challenges.
The Mental Health Foundation’s research has shown that people with a strong connection with nature are typically happier in life, as nature can generate many happy emotions, calmness, joy and creativity. Connecting with nature benefits our mental health and their research found that 44% of people said being close to nature makes them less anxious or worried.
Andy Grant, General Manager at Lindengate:
“We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to The Clare Foundation for their incredible support in helping us bring the new Community and Education Hub to life at Lindengate.
The opening evening on 19th June was a truly memorable celebration, filled with warmth, shared purpose, and a deep sense of community. We were delighted to welcome Martin Gallagher from The Clare Foundation to site along with the partners who made the creation of this new area at Lindengate possible. The evening also enabled Lindengate to bring together many participants and supporters to this special opening event in the summer sunshine. Our patron, Countess Howe, Lord Lieutenant of Buckinghamshire officially opened the Community and Education Hub. We were also able to welcome old and new friends to Lindengate, including founders Sian Chattle and Charlie Powell, Laura Kyrke-Smith (MP Aylesbury and Villages) and Pippa Kirkbride (High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire). Thank you to the Clare Foundation who gave us the incredible opportunity to create this place of learning, education and wellbeing.
The Community and Education Hub, along with the beautiful woodland gardens with fire pits and areas for play, learning and bushcraft activities now lead into our Clare Foundation Nature Reserve. The first phase of this project in the nature reserve which began in 2019. Both areas will play a vital role in supporting young people and those young at heart across Buckinghamshire. These unique areas provide a safe, nurturing environment which enables people of all ages to engage in a shared learning experience and improve their mental, physical and social wellbeing through nature-based, craft and cooking activities.
The Hub is already being used through term-time in a positive partnership with an alternative provision, Strive Inclusive Academy to support children aged 6-18. Lindengate is also supporting groups 16-25 and all ages through our programmes. Our services are for young and older people inclusive of those who are neurodivergent, struggling with their mental health or mild learning difficulties. Lindengate ensures everyone feels welcome and understood. Lindengate is also able to bring young children and older adults together through supported intergenerational learning in nature.
Thanks to The Clare Foundation’s support, we are better equipped to make a lasting, positive difference in the lives of those who need it most. The Clare Foundation has made an incredible impact to Lindengate and the wider community who access our services when and where it matters most.”
Mike Clare, Founder & President of The Clare Foundation:
“We’re passionate about backing innovative local projects that make a real difference. Lindengate does work that is truly life-changing, and I’m delighted we’ve been able to play a part in creating this incredible new hub and The Clare Nature Reserve.”
Martin Gallagher, CEO of The Clare Foundation, added: “Lindengate is a shining example of community-led impact. Their inclusive, nature-based approach is transforming lives – and it’s a privilege to stand beside them on this journey.”
The new Hub and surrounding Clare Foundation Nature Reserve will make a lasting difference to young people and the wider community across Buckinghamshire. The opening celebration, attended by partners, supporters and dignitaries including Countess Howe, was a powerful reminder of what’s possible through partnership and shared purpose.
