Finding Freedom in Nature: Our Work with Devon and Cornwall Refugee Support
At Common Flora, we have always believed that nature has the power to heal, connect, and inspire. Working alongside Devon and Cornwall Refugee Support (DCRS) has shown us this truth again and again, and the stories that come from our shared events are ones that stay with us.
A Taste of Freedom
Recently, Abdul shared with us his love of simply being in nature. He told us about a walk on Dartmoor, 12 miles across open land with a friend, and how much he enjoyed the feeling of wildness and freedom. You could hear it in his voice, that pure joy of space, sky, and movement.
His friends, meanwhile, reminisced about childhood in Kabul. Infographic pictures we had brought along prompted these memories, a reminder of how simple, land based images can unlock stories and conversations that go far beyond the activity itself.
Mint, Trees, and Seeds
At another session, people told us they loved the mint we shared, the tree planting, the seed sowing, and the chance to get hands on with propagation and growing projects. There is something grounding about tending to plants, and for people who have been uprooted, it can be a small act of reclaiming stability.
It made us think, we could be doing even more of this in Plymouth. Imagine taking mint, trees, and seeds to plant in partnership with local landowners, spreading that sense of growth, possibility, and belonging across the city.
Shared Stories, Shared Roots
These conversations linked beautifully with other voices we have heard. A new neighbour, Chris, spoke in ways that chimed with a Kurdish man from Turkey interviewed by our own Holly. Different backgrounds, different journeys, yet the same longing for rootedness and connection.
It is why we are exploring ways to document these moments more fully. We have been recording stories, taking photos, and gathering reflections as part of a Harvest Community Consultation. Holly has even sent out a questionnaire to others in the Abundant Life project, so we can capture as many perspectives as possible. It is not just about remembering, it is about showing funders and future partners how deeply these projects matter.
Why It Matters
These are not one off “nice days out.” They are lifelines. For someone who has never been into the countryside, stepping onto Dartmoor or planting a tree can spark a shift, from feeling like an outsider to feeling like a participant in the land we share.
In the first half of 2025 alone, DCRS hosted 117 activities: hiking, canoeing, cooking, crafting, and more. Each one helps people breathe easier, laugh more, and build friendships. For those who have been through displacement and loss, those moments are priceless.
Looking Ahead
From Refugee Week UK celebrations, with music, food, and dancing, to podcasts that lift up migrant voices, to quiet afternoons planting mint and seeds, we have seen what happens when people are given space to belong.
And we are not slowing down. At Common Flora, we will keep working with DCRS and our partners to open doors into nature and community. Because everyone deserves to feel freedom, joy, and hope, no matter where they have come from or what they have been through.
Learn more about DCRS: dcrs-plymouth.org
