Louise Gibbs

‘’Northern Roots is a place where nature is accessible to all. We hope to grow pride within Oldham, and help local people access fresh produce, opportunities and jobs. Here, families and communities can be present in nature and form new connections with each other.’’ Louise Gibbs, Natural Health Service Guardian

Louise joined Northern Roots in 2023 as a paid, part-time Community Champion, as part of a National Lottery Heritage Fund project, and has progressed to become a Natural Health Service Guardian.

Born and bred in Oldham, Lousie has previous experience as a Community Worker for Salvation Army Oldham and has qualifications in Mental Health Awareness, Autism Awareness, Counselling and Interpersonal Skills, and Adult Social Care qualifications.

As a Natural Health Service Guardian, Louise facilitates nature-based sessions and activities for groups. She designs sessions that help participants reconnect to nature and each other, help develop confidence, and improve mental health and wellbeing. She hopes participants feel safe, nurtured, and free to be their authentic selves at Northern Roots.

The most rewarding part of her work is connecting with a diverse range of people and seeing people’s journeys of personal growth, both within the sessions and beyond into their everyday lives.

Outside of Northern Roots, Louise enjoys spontaneous adventures and going for long walks ‘off the beaten track’.