At Obsessive Recessive Roots CIC, we believe that real change grows from the ground up. Our roots run deep in nature, community, and practical living — nurturing people and the land side by side.

We are led by Kirstie, Shay, and Adam, our directors, and supported by a trusted and ever-growing network of volunteers, professionals who generously share their skills, and the regular attendees who bring life, laughter, and meaning to our sessions. Together, we form a community that believes in showing up for one another.

Based on our 1.39-acre working outdoor site, we are developing a vibrant, inclusive community space that welcomes people of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life. Our vision is simple but powerful: to create a place where everyone can belong, learn, and grow — at their own pace and in their own way.

We support mental health and wellbeing across the lifespan, offering a wide range of groups and activities. These include men’s mental health groups, youth sessions, infant and early years groups, and intergenerational activities that bring people together through shared experience. Whether someone needs quiet connection, structured learning, or space to just be, there is room for them here.

Our work blends nature-based learning, practical life skills, and creative expression. Outdoors, this looks like school-style play and bushcraft, sensory forest experiences, free play, animal care, homesteading skills, and developing diverse food systems. Participants learn how to grow food, understand where it comes from, and gain confidence through hands-on involvement with produce, land, and animals. Indoors, we offer crafts, art, literacy support, structured learning opportunities, and calm creative spaces that complement our outdoor work.

From tending vegetable plots and caring for animals to learning traditional rural skills, every task strengthens both our soil and our souls. Our work supports mental health, reduces food poverty, and builds self-reliance by teaching practical, accessible ways to grow, nurture, and sustain — both individually and as a community.

Children and adults alike dig into real-life learning, build confidence, and form meaningful connections — with each other, with animals, and with the earth beneath their feet. We also host community events that celebrate collaboration, resilience, and shared purpose, proving that when we work together, our shared roots can support something extraordinary.

At Obsessive Recessive Roots CIC, we’re not just growing food — we’re growing futures, friendships, and a stronger sense of belonging. Because when you care for your roots, everything else begins to flourish.

Our Impact:

Since launching Obsessive Recessive Roots CIC, we have:

• Supported over 20 local families through food parcels, meal support cards and practical assistance during difficult times.

• Engaged more than 50 people in nature-based wellbeing activities, helping individuals and families connect with the outdoors, improve wellbeing and build confidence.

• Delivered a dedicated men's wellbeing group supporting 15 local men to reduce isolation, improve mental health and develop peer support networks.

• Provided children with hands-on learning opportunities around nature, biodiversity, mini-beasts, food growing and environmental stewardship.

• Ensured activities remain affordable and accessible through low-cost or free community sessions for parents, carers and families.

• Worked collaboratively with 5 local organisations, strengthening community partnerships and increasing opportunities for local residents.

• Helped improve and maintain community green spaces, creating welcoming environments for people and wildlife.

• Supported local groups with fundraising, grant applications, event planning and organisational development, helping community initiatives become more sustainable.

• Successfully delivered 2 large-scale community events, bringing together residents, volunteers, partners and local organisations to celebrate, learn and connect.

Through our work we continue to create opportunities for people to connect with nature, support one another and build stronger, more resilient communities.

 

Please note: our site is a working, outdoor space — expect mud, mess, and plenty of animal antics! Things aren’t polished or perfect here, and that’s part of the charm. Come prepared for the elements, bring your wellies, and embrace the fun, friendly chaos that comes with being close to nature.

Events and sessions are advertised on our social media pages — or get in touch to learn more.

Signing off with a smile from our mascot, Frank. 🐷🌱