Building Confidence Through Photography: Women’s Wellbeing Project at Allerton Castle

Our researcher Ugo and Volunteer Olivia

Last year, I had the incredible opportunity to deliver ten mindful and therapeutic photography sessions across York, supporting women to build confidence and self-esteem.

Our goal was simple:
to slow down, take notice, and reconnect — using photography as a tool for self-discovery and connection.

We’re so pleased to share that images taken of the women during the sessions, alongside participants’ reflections, are now on permanent display at Allerton Castle.

The chapel at Allerton Castle

A heartfelt thank you to Zoe Cooper Photography for beautifully capturing these moments and amplifying the voices of the inspiring women involved. Her collaboration added real depth and value to this project.

With generous support from Two Ridings Foundation through the Women in Business Fund, we delivered trauma-informed mindful and therapeutic photography sessions focused on confidence and self-esteem.

Sessions began at Kyra

The feedback has been incredibly moving.

Women shared how they felt:

  • calmer
  • more connected
  • more able to notice the small moments of beauty in everyday life

One participant arrived feeling exhausted and unwell, but left feeling revitalised — lifted by fresh air, gentle movement, and conversation.

Another spoke about rediscovering a sense of excitement, simply by learning to notice things again.

And one woman shared how the group helped her begin rebuilding her confidence after years of anxiety.

Photo credit – Zoe Cooper Photography

Through this supportive and nurturing environment, something really special happened — a sense of belonging.

We’re also proud to have welcomed four new volunteers and ambassadors into Mindful Photography UK. If you attend regularly and feel connected to what we do, you’re always invited to step into that role too — just send us an email.

Photo credit – Zoe Cooper Photography

This project created a gentle space for creativity, confidence, and connection — and we’re so proud of every woman who took part.

Thank you to everyone who supported, contributed, and trusted the process.

Photo credit – Zoe Cooper Photography

Visit the exhibition

A heartfelt thank you to Allerton Castle for their kindness and generosity in hosting this exhibition.

Experience the project firsthand at the chapel at Allerton Castle.

📍 Allerton Mauleverer, North Yorkshire, HG5 0SE
📞 01423 330927
📧 info@allertoncastle.co.uk

👉 Please check the website to book before setting off


🗓 Tuesdays – tours and open house


If this resonates with you…

✨ Join a future workshop
✨ Refer yourself or someone else
✨ Or simply explore more about what we do

👉 Visit: www.mindfulphotography.org.uk
👉 Or email: rebecca@mindfulphotography.org.uk

At Mindful Photography UK, our work supports confidence for everyday life, employment, and staff wellbeing. When people feel more like themselves again, they’re better able to move forward — whether that’s into work, volunteering, or re-engaging with others.

Slow down • Take notice • Nurture awareness


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