The Raise Collective: Exploring new ways to create accessible woodland
In late November, the Raise team hosted the second Raise Collective session in Barrow - an inspiring day of woodland walking, discussion, and creative collaboration focused on the planned development of new woodlands in Barrow.
The session brought our team together with biologists, artists and arts organisations (amongst others) including Full of Noises, representatives from Arts Council England, Westmorland and Furness Council staff, faculty and students from Furness College and autism support charity Autus Cumbria.
Throughout the day, Raise foresters and artists supported the group to explore the future use and value of Barrow woodlands for local communities, particularly those centred on education and mental health benefits, and as spaces that celebrate and support local neurodivergent groups.
Ideas emerged around creating woodlands as safe havens for students, hands-on learning spaces for conservation work, and welcoming outdoor areas with sensory-friendly design. Participants shared a vision of future woodlands as vibrant hubs for arts, culture, and community connection, with opportunities for workshops, events, and creative installations.
Key insights included Furness College’s enthusiasm for using woodland spaces as learning resources and places of respite for students, particularly to support mental health. Local organisation Autus emphasised the importance of accessible design for autistic individuals, such as natural signage and social stories to ease visits.
The session concluded with a shared commitment to build on this momentum.
The enthusiasm and creativity on the day showcased Barrow’s potential as a model for inclusive, sustainable green spaces that bring together people, nature, and culture.
All learning from the day will inform scheme design for this site, and others within the Raise: Cumbria Community Forest area.
If you would like more information on The Raise Collective please Contact Raise Associate Producer John Coburn.
