Charity secures £15k grant from Manx Lottery Trust

Funding enables Autism Initiatives to expand calming, nature-based support for autistic children and adults

Autism Initiatives has been awarded a grant of £15,405 from the Manx Lottery Trust’s Community Awards Programme

It will go towards funding the Wild Minds Project, an innovative nature-based programme for autistic children and adults on the Isle of Man.

The Wild Minds Project offers bi-monthly outdoor sessions designed to provide therapeutic, sensory-rich experiences.

Activities include bushcraft, nature walks, camping, outdoor play, and cooking.

These sessions aim to help participants develop emotional regulation, manage stress, and build meaningful social connections.

In addition to the regular sessions, Autism Initiatives will host two major events each year in celebration of Autism Awareness Month in April and Neurodiversity Week in March.

These events offer a platform for statutory, private, and third-sector stakeholders to engage in sessions led directly by members of the autistic community, highlighting the voices and experiences of those they support.

Karen Campbell from Autism Initiatives says: “We are filled with gratitude for this support from the Manx Lottery Trust, which enables us to bring the therapeutic benefits of nature to autistic children and adults.

“Through time outdoors, we aim to create calming, supportive spaces where individuals can grow, connect and thrive.”

Chair of the Manx Lottery Trust Sarah Kelly, adds “It is a privilege to support innovative, nature-based programmes like Wild Minds.

“We are proud that this funding will help autistic individuals access meaningful experiences that enhance wellbeing, skills and community connection.”

The Community Awards Programme, funded by the Manx Lottery Trust in partnership with the National Lottery Community Fund, supports projects that improve communities and the lives of those most in need, offering grants from £2,501 to £50,000.