Experiencing nature and the outdoors in a supportive, welcoming and social environment is at the heart of everything The Bay: A Blueprint for Recovery does. Working with people and communities along the Morecambe Bay coast, The Bay provides group sessions and other opportunities for people to improve their health and wellbeing through accessing the nature on their doorstep. 

Which is why we are delighted to announce that two applications to the Wyre Council Community Cohesion Fund have been successful, securing a total of £48,024. The money will support two wonderful projects; ‘Nature is the Glue’ and ‘Tidal Together’, enabling The Bay to continue its mission to create safer, healthier, more connected and cohesive communities throughout Wyre. 

Mike McDonnell, Senior Engagement & Wellbeing Officer at The Bay, said: “Nature connects us all, and collective efforts to protect wildlife are a powerful way to create feelings of hope, unity and belonging. Every kind act, connection, beach clean-up or environmental effort is a sign of hope, and we aim for this ripple of positivity to continue spreading.” 

Nature is the Glue

The ‘Nature is the Glue’ project builds on The Bay’s established Nature & Wellbeing programme, which has spent the past five years bringing people together through shared experiences in nature and advocating for more inclusive communities.

The programme uses nature-based activities to improve mental wellbeing, reduce barriers and stigma, and strengthen relationships between people who may otherwise feel isolated or disconnected. The Bay recognises that, despite differences in background or experience, people often share the same hopes for the future: healthier communities, a better environment and positive change. A shared love of nature offers an opportunity to find common ground, challenge perceptions and build lasting connections. 

Tidal Together

The funding will also support ‘Tidal Together’, a new project which aims to help young people aged 11-18 connect with nature, improve their mental wellbeing, develop confidence and leadership skills, and play an active role in shaping positive environmental change along the Wyre coast. 

Through monthly weekend Nature & Wellbeing sessions, delivered as part of the Wave Warriors programme, the sessions will welcome young people who may benefit from additional support for a range of reasons, including social isolation, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, bereavement, difficulties navigating social environments or challenges engaging with mainstream activities.  

Mike McDonnell continues: “We discard labels. Our inclusive wellbeing sessions are thoughtfully adapted and welcoming for all. We often don’t reflect how special this is, as for us it’s just the way we operate — it is the norm to make everyone feel included, supported, and valued.” 

The Wyre Council Community Cohesion Fund, established by Wyre Council and administered by Community First Blackpool, Wyre & Fylde, supports initiatives that build social trust, promote inclusion, and connect people from different backgrounds across the borough. 

Find out more about The Bay and how to get involved