The Root Cause Project CIC, a grassroots initiative run by veterans for veterans, is proud to celebrate its first anniversary of offering free mental health and wellbeing support to the veterans and serving personnel of North Devon. Over the past year, the project has touched the lives of more than 100 veterans and service members, providing a safe space where they can heal, reconnect with nature, and build resilience through outdoor, nature-based sessions.
One Year of Impact: Supporting Those Who Serve
Founded to address the unique challenges faced by veterans and serving personnel, the Root Cause Project has delivered over 20 outdoor wellbeing sessions, helping participants navigate stress, trauma, and mental health challenges. These sessions combine bushcraft, survival skills, and therapeutic approaches, offering an effective and holistic way to heal.
Reflecting on the milestone, co-founder Roy Goddin shared the project’s motivation: “North Devon is home to approximately 8,000 veterans, and we recognised that local services – despite their best efforts – often struggle to make a lasting impact due to a lack of firsthand understanding of military life. We created the Root Cause Project as a safety net for veterans and serving personnel, providing a space where they feel understood and supported.”
Breaking Barriers: Thanks to Key Partners and Funders
The past year’s success would not have been possible without the support of key partners and funders. The National Lottery Community Fund has been particularly instrumental, providing the funding to purchase a van that now helps transport participants to and from the woodland sessions. This has overcome a significant barrier for many veterans who otherwise would not have been able to attend.
“We are immensely thankful for the National Lottery’s support,” said Roy. “The funding has been crucial in making our sessions accessible to all veterans and personnel, allowing them to experience the calming, therapeutic environment of natural woodland.”
In addition to the National Lottery, the project has received essential support from The Co-op and Barnstaple Town Council, whose contributions have helped sustain the project’s growth and outreach. These partnerships have enabled the team to continue delivering vital services to those who need them most.
Heartfelt Impact: Veterans Share Their Stories
The impact of the Root Cause Project’s work is perhaps best illustrated by the veterans themselves. A participant from the Royal Yorkshire Regiment shared his personal journey:
“Thank you for today, and for making me feel welcome. I’ve struggled with mental health problems since leaving the army in 1994, when I was medically discharged. Transitioning back to civilian life left me in a dark place, only knowing the army way of life. Today, I felt like I was part of a family again. I truly appreciate what you’re doing for veterans and serving personnel.”
A Collaborative Approach to Mental Health Support
The project’s success lies not only in the dedication of its team but also in its strong partnerships. Root Cause Project works with the NHS and the National Centre for Creative Health to ensure a comprehensive approach to mental health support. Additionally, a partnership with Beechwood Clothing has ensured that all participants have the proper outdoor gear, allowing them to fully engage in the activities regardless of weather conditions or personal circumstances.
The project also maintains strong ties with RM Chivenor and The Royal Marines Charity, ensuring continuous support for both veterans and serving personnel in the region.
Looking Ahead: Expanding Reach and Impact
Roy and the Root Cause Project team remain committed to creating a safe, nurturing space where veterans and serving personnel can continue to reconnect with nature, their peers, and themselves. As they look to the future, the Root Cause Project aims to expand its reach and impact even further, offering more sessions and services to North Devon’s veteran community.
Root Cause Project CIC is dedicated to helping veterans and serving personnel rest, reflect, and rebuild their mental health and wellbeing. By blending outdoor activities with expert mental health support, the project offers a unique and effective approach to healing. For more information on upcoming sessions or to get involved, visit Root Cause Project or contact them at rootcauseproject@outlook.com.
The Root Cause Project CIC 