… to help tackle depression and self-harm in young people
This October, the Wales Coast Path has unveiled its new merchandise collection in partnership with Heads Above The Waves (HATW) — an independent non-profit supporting young people who are struggling with self-harm.
The partnership aims to raise awareness of the positive impact spending time in the great outdoors can have on mental health and wellbeing — as well as raising vital funds via merchandise sales, to support HATW’s work.
What’s more, each product has been specially designed to incorporate a positive message — in the hope that the hoodies, sweatshirts and t-shirts themselves can be a starting point for important conversations about positive mental health.
Si Martin, founder of HATW, said: “Around 1 in 12 young people self-harm, and we’re on a mission to change that — by introducing positive, healthy coping mechanisms, and reminding people that they’re not alone.
“Getting outdoors for mindfulness is one of the coping mechanisms we promote. So, by collaborating with the Wales Coast Path — the perfect destination to do just that — we hope to raise further awareness of our work, all while introducing a new audience of walking enthusiasts to some pretty cool, coast-inspired merch for their next outdoor adventure.”
To complement the new range — available to buy now on the Heads Above The Waves website — the Wales Coast Path and HATW have also released a joint mindfulness resource pack. Free to download from the Wales Coast Path website, it includes mindfulness walking routes, coastal activities to soothe the soul and a variety of Spotify playlists to help people of all ages find their slice of wellbeing on the Path.
Sioned Humphreys, Specialist Outdoor Access Advisor for the Wales Coast Path, added: “As we approach the colder months, it’s more important than ever to encourage people of all ages to continue to venture outside — and establish that much-needed connection with nature.
“From breathtaking views to the sound of waves crashing against the shore — mindfulness on the Path will mean something different to everyone. But what better way to find yours, than donning our new merchandise collection this autumn?”
To shop the Wales Coast Path x Heads Above The Waves collection, visit the Heads Above The Waves shop at The Corporation, Cardiff, or shop online here: https://hatw.co.uk/shop/
What’s more, the Wales Coast Path shop has a wide range of further merchandise on offer — from walking essentials such as rucksacks, raincoats and water bottles to mugs, notebooks and face coverings. Shop today: www.walescoastpathshop.co.uk/
