You Matter, a community woodland project focused on mental wellbeing in Saddleworth, has celebrated its second anniversary. Located just off Uppermill High Street, the initiative was founded by Michael Bailey and Michael Heron to combine nature, creativity, and community connection.

Michael Heron, who has a background in therapy, noticed that his clients engaged more deeply when sessions involved nature and wildlife. This insight led him to join forces with Michael Bailey, whose expertise lies in engineering and arts, to create a space for healing and connection.

What was once an overgrown and unused area has been transformed over the past two years into a serene woodland haven with pathways and easy riverbank access. Volunteers have played a key role in this transformation, making it a welcoming retreat for people across the Oldham borough.

Through forest school activities, You Matter offers a range of programs including traditional crafts, fire lighting, and river wading. These are designed to help people of all ages connect with nature and support their mental wellbeing, with sessions tailored to foster deeper conversations.

However, the project recently faced a setback when its application to the One Oldham Fund was unsuccessful. The funds were intended to secure a temporary space for year-round sessions, which would have helped deliver their community work more consistently.

“People want this, but we can’t do it for free,” said co-founder Michael Heron. “We have families to support and bills to pay, just like everyone else. We’re looking for individuals, organisations, or businesses to support us.”

Despite this disappointment, You Matter remains grateful for community grants already received, including a recent award from Saddleworth Community Hydro Oldham. This assistance helps maintain the woodland space and offers some stability for local mental health support.

Looking ahead, You Matter aims to make site improvements and expand into traditional crafts and holistic activities. Co-founder Michael Heron hopes for regular sponsorship to ease financial pressures and secure the project’s future.

The depth of community backing was clear at a recent Easter event, where families turned out for an egg hunt, print painting, wooden‑rabbit crafting, and a six‑person hammock challenge. The event highlighted the project’s role in bringing people together in Saddleworth, part of the wider Oldham community.

To learn more about upcoming events or to support You Matter, visit their website or Facebook page. The project continues to seek local backing to keep its woodland space alive and accessible for those who need it.