A LOCAL charity that connects people with woodlands for learning and wellbeing has secured funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which invests in communities with the aim of improving pride in place and increasing life chances.

Tir Coed recently announced that the charity has secured SPF funding for the delivery of woodland-based learning in Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire until the end of 2025.

The Antir Project has received £45,000 in Carmarthenshire and £112,803 in Pembrokeshire through the Shared Prosperity Fund, provided by the UK Government and managed by the respective Local Authorities. The funding enables Tir Coed to deliver a programme of training to people facing barriers to employment in both counties.

Led by Tir Coed’s expert tutors, trainees will learn about woodland ecology, gain new skills, increase physical and mental wellbeing, meet new people and connect with nature. Accredited courses will include an introduction to woodland skills, woodland carpentry, forestry first aid and professional brush cutter training.

As well as developing practical skills and gaining qualifications, trainees will grow in confidence, self-belief and resilience. Individual mentoring support will help trainees to find opportunities to move on to which could include further training, volunteering or employment.

Activities carried out during the courses will also enhance local greenspaces for the whole community.

Nancy Cole, Head of Development and Impact, said: “This is a great outcome in a difficult funding climate. We are so happy to be able to continue to support people in Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire with our holistic, person-centred approach to practical outdoor learning. This funding allows us to work intensively with participants and enables us to tailor in-depth learning and affect real, lasting change for our trainees.”