New nature project launched to improve health and wellbeing in Walsall
A new two-year scheme will help residents access green spaces and nature-based activities
A new project using the power of nature to improve health and wellbeing has been launched in Walsall.
The Green Social Prescribing Project aims to help residents access green spaces, build social connections and take part in activities supporting physical and mental health.
Walsall Council has appointed MindKind to deliver the two-year programme, which began on September 1 following a competitive procurement process.
The project is part of Walsall's Nature Towns and Cities programme and supports the wider ambitions of the Walsall Together partnership to reduce health inequalities across the borough.
MindKind will work with health services, social prescribers, community organisations and environmental partners to make nature-based opportunities more accessible.
The programme will focus particularly on communities experiencing the greatest health inequalities and people who face barriers to accessing nature.
Walsall has a range of green and blue spaces, including parks, recreation grounds, nature reserves, allotments, community gardens, fishing pools and canals.
Councillor Matt Eason, portfolio holder for culture, health and wellbeing at Walsall Council, said the project had the potential to "improve health and wellbeing, strengthen communities and help tackle inequalities".
Sureya Gulzar, director of nature-based health and regenerative communities at MindKind, said connecting with nature could have a "transformative impact on wellbeing, confidence and social connection".
Over the next two years, MindKind will establish a health and nature network, support new green health initiatives and strengthen links between community and health organisations.
The project is funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund through the Nature Towns and Cities programme and will also contribute to the development of Walsall's Green Nature and Health Strategy.