News East Devon District Council’s Countryside Team Tackles Loneliness Through Partnership with Age UK Devon

East Devon District Council’s Countryside Team Tackles Loneliness Through Partnership with Age UK Devon

The East Devon District Council (EDDC) Countryside Team has partnered with Age UK Devon to offer fortnightly sessions designed to combat loneliness and isolation among older adults through connection with nature.

Following the Covid-19 pandemic, the Seaton Wetlands Activity Club, a partnership between EDDC and Age UK, provides local residents over the age of 50 with a varied programme of outdoor activities at Seaton Wetlands nature reserve. Led by the Countryside Team's Education Ranger, Penny Evans, with support from Age UK Devon volunteers, the sessions take place every other Friday, from 1030am to 12noon.

To date, activities have included bird watching, a bat walk, campfire cooking, creative activities using natural materials and a dawn chorus walk—always followed by tea, biscuits, and plenty of conversation. As autumn approaches, the sessions will reflect the changing seasons, with autumn and Christmas craft workshops planned alongside the always popular campfire cooking. With the Wetlands’ diverse birdlife, bird watching continues to be a programme highlight, particularly during the arrival of migratory species, offering participants guided bird watching sessions.

Councillor Geoff Jung, EDDC’s Portfolio Holder for Coast, Country, and Environment, praised the partnership: "The Countryside Team’s work with Age UK Devon highlights the Council’s commitment to enhancing the wellbeing of our residents. The Seaton Wetlands Activity Club is a fantastic initiative that encourages older individuals to connect with nature and each other at Seaton Wetlands, our award-winning nature reserve: a site which we take great pride in."

Pete Ferlie, Active in Later Life Manager at Age UK Devon said: "We were very pleased to be working with the Countryside Team to deliver the Outdoor Activity group at Seaton Wetlands. These sessions offer older adults a chance to enjoy the outdoors, have fun, and explore nature. Since the group's relaunch in early 2024, participants have built new friendships and even visited the site independently outside of the organised sessions, which supports Age UK’s goal of reducing loneliness and isolation.’’

The Age UK Devon and Seaton Wetlands Outdoor Activity group meets every other Friday at 1030am the Seaton Wetlands car park (unless otherwise advertised) until 12noon. Sessions are £3.50 per person, including refreshments. No booking is required. The next session is due to take place on Friday 18 October. For more information, contact Age UK Devon at: info@ageukdevon.org.uk or 03332412340.   

For more information about Wild East Devon visit: wildeastdevon.co.uk.