International Men’s Day – Interview with Nigel Bell, Chief Executive of ARK at Egwood

In celebration of International Men’s Day this week, we are thrilled to highlight some of the remarkable organisations we support through our social value initiatives. These organisations are either led by inspirational male leaders or are dedicated to enhancing men’s well-being.

Below we meet Nigel Bell, Chief Executive of ARK at Egwood, an inter-generational land-based day service for people of all ages, needs and abilities. Based upon 12 acres of land and woodland, ARK creates a safe, outdoor space for people to relax, engage with others and improve their overall health and wellbeing.

Our Social Value team supports ARK at Egwood as part of our Pinnacle Service Families contract, with our mentors helping them navigate networking with other social enterprises, access support via the Armed Forces Covenant Trust and establish veterans’ drop ins.  

1. Hi Nigel, can you tell us a bit about yourself and your organisation?

Acts of Random Kindness (ARK’s) primary mission is to  enable our community to improve their health and wellbeing, confidence and community engagement, by providing a safe and nurturing outdoor environment. We do this by using land-based activities, such as horticulture, animals, nature, cooking and rural arts and crafts.

2. What motivated you to set up ARK at Edgewood and focus on providing support to the community?

I decided to set up ARK as after leaving the Royal Navy in 2014, I spent 8 years working in the private sector and was really disheartened over lack of services, provision costing too much, making it unaffordable to those that need it, so wanted to set up a business for social benefit and not for profit.

3. Can you share a specific story or example of how your organisation has made a positive impact on men’s lives?

ARK supports people of all ages and varying needs and in particular vulnerable men. ARK has supported many men to improve their mental and physical health through connecting them with peers and setting up a men’s fishing group, enabling men to spend time doing a relaxed activity and having the opportunity to chat with each other in a relaxed environment.

4. What are some of the biggest challenges you face in your work, and how do you overcome them?

The biggest challenge I have is seeking funding to meet ARK’s running costs as there is little money in helping people to improve their health and wellbeing and in particular their mental health.

5. What qualities do you believe are essential for effective leadership?

I learnt my trade as a leader in the Royal Navy and take this learning and qualities into my role at ARK. For me it is having the ability to see each team member as an individual, let them play to their strengths, foster an environment where people can openly express themselves, yet also have the ability to make uncomfortable decisions when needed.

6. What advice would you give to other men who are looking to make a positive impact in their communities or at work?

I would say look at what is already out there in your community or being done locally that you can learn from, collaborate with so you are not duplicating what is on your door step. Network as much as possible, identify what local needs are and listen to your community.

7. Looking ahead, what are your future goals for your organisation and its impact on the community?

My future goals for ARK are the long-term financial sustainability, so we can be here for many years to come. Grow the Armed Forces support network in Somerset, furthering collaboration and meeting the long-term needs of that community and helping many more people.

Thank you for sharing your story with us. Your insights and experiences are invaluable, and we are honoured to highlight your contributions as part of our International Men’s Day celebration.