New Natural Health Service launched

Evidence showing that being in nature is good for the body and soul has led to the launch of a new partnership to make the most of environmental assets in improving health in North and South Lanarkshire.  The Lanarkshire Green Health Partnership was launched on Monday 10th September at Clydesdale Community Initiatives (CCI). This is the first of four pilot cross-sector partnerships in Scotland which aim to make stronger connections between health services and use of the outdoor environment, part of Our Natural Health Service which is led by Scottish Natural Heritage.

Bridget Finton, Policy & Advice Officer from SNH said, “It’s been great working with colleagues from across Lanarkshire, and seeing the enthusiasm to make more use of the outdoors as ‘Our Natural Health Service’. The Green Health Partnership will raise the profile of physical and mental health benefits from ‘green exercise’ within the health sector, and show how connecting more people to green places can be part of the solution to a range of health and wellbeing issues.”

A participant from CCI, who work in communities across central Scotland to address health barriers using environmental volunteering said, “Being part of the CCI team has developed my skills, confidence and fitness.  I have a sense of purpose and peace working in the herb garden and I believe as we care for the earth, the earth cares for us.”

Green health initiatives are already underway at Wishaw General Hospital, Get Walking Lanarkshire and Cumbernauld Living Landscapes. Find out more about the wide range of organisations, activities and opportunities including health walks, work in nature, conservation volunteering and gardening here.