Plymouth - The Outdoor Partnership

The Outdoor Partnership works with clubs, schools, individuals, and cross-sector partners to strengthen the conditions that enable people in Plymouth to achieve their potential through outdoor activities, participation, volunteering, training, and education

Stuart Jones - Plymouth Outdoor Activities Development Officer

Stuart Jones is our Plymouth Outdoor Activities Development Officer.

If you’d like to know more or are an outdoor activity club that would like to get involved, please contact Stuart on 07742 875302 or stuart.jones@outdoorpartnership.co.uk

Or find out more Using Stuarts LinkTree :- https://tr.ee/2fVVPcaWUx

Urban Nature Walking Group

We ran a weekly walking group exploring the city’s green spaces, weaving in mindfulness, nature observation, elements of forest bathing, foraging and birdwatching. The sessions were designed for participants living with long‑term pain, chronic health conditions, inactivity or mental health challenges. This project brought partners from across the city together to create a supportive group that benefits residents of Plymouth and helps them connect with nature, community and wellbeing.

The Outdoor Partnership would like to thank:-

Incredible Edible UK (leads the walks)
Four greens Community Trust, Devonport community builder (targets participants)
Food is Fun CIC ( provides healthy eating expertise)
Active Devon ( grant giver)
National Trust/PCC green communities ( targets participants)
Plymouth city council. Plymouth active (grant giver)
Routeways charity. ( provides space for cooking)
Livewell SW Health and social care ( targets participants)

Young People - “Paddle for Plastic”

The Outdoor Partnership worked with young people from some of Plymouth’s most economically disadvantaged communities to connect them with water-based activities during the summer holidays, creating pathways into local clubs and ongoing participation.

Alongside developing skills on the water, participants helped care for their local environment by collecting plastic waste from waterways using giant paddleboards, while learning about the impact of plastic pollution and the importance of being responsible marine citizens.

Through strong collaboration with local clubs, community partners and activity providers, the project is helping more young people see the sea as a valued part of their local environment and a place where they can belong, learn and thrive. More than 70 young people aged 8-18 took part, building confidence, making friends and developing the skills and connections needed to continue their outdoor journey beyond the project.

MoonDogz

Using the Partnership’s club development framework, Stuart helped establish : MoonDogz

The Mental Health Kayaking Support Group offers a safe, supportive space for adults experiencing mental health challenges, using kayaking and time in nature to build wellbeing and healthy coping strategies.

Sessions help people relax, learn new skills, meet others and grow confidence. We provide guidance, accreditation and training to support the group’s development.

The group uses a private Facebook community to protect members’ privacy. If you’re interested in joining or learning more, please contact Stuart Jones using the details above.

Horizons Sailing and Mayflower Specials

The new Special Olympics Plymouth & District (SOPD) sailing section, delivered in partnership with Horizon Sailing Charity, is now a thriving programme offering regular, structured sessions on the water. Athletes are building confidence, developing new skills and enjoying meaningful social connections, with many beginning to explore local competition opportunities and long‑term pathways within Special Olympics.

To support sustainable growth, a new team of volunteers has been recruited and trained with guidance from the Royal Yachting Association. They now work alongside local coaches to deliver year‑round inclusive sport.

The impact is already clear: former participants have re‑engaged, new members have joined after hearing about the sessions, and feedback shows improved wellbeing and growing confidence. Several athletes have achieved water‑safety and introductory skills certificates, with more now training for integrated sessions and future competitions. Initial funding has helped establish a strong foundation for continued development, keeping inclusive sailing accessible in Plymouth for years to come.