Introducing our Incredible Grasslands Project
Part of the NHS Lothian Biodiversity Action Plan, this initiative transforms traditional, short-mown grass into species-rich meadows and vibrant parklands.
Find out moreGreen Health
Our natural health service
Spending time in nature is essential for both physical and mental well-being. At NHS Lothian Charity, Green Health is one of our defining priorities.
Partnering with NHS Lothian, we are bringing nature into the heart of healthcare:
- For Patients: Creating therapeutic courtyards and gardens to aid recovery and peace of mind.
- For NHS Staff: Building restful outdoor spaces to recharge during demanding shifts.
- For the Community: Enhancing local greenspaces and connecting people directly to nature-based health activities.
Project Highlights
RIE Staff Wellbeing Courtyard
NHS Lothian Biodiversity Action Plan
Wildlife at the Western
Havens: Stories and Portraits from NHS Lothian
Join our amazing NHS Lothian staff on their journey to discover their hidden havens – those peaceful pockets within the busy healthcare environment where they find moments of quiet to recharge. From an indoor basement laundry to an outdoor rooftop terrace, the stories and portraits capture the essence of these havens and the impact they have on wellbeing.
Latest News
Growing Together: Community Gardening Sessions Support…
Cyrenians ‘Growing Together’ gardening sessions which are funded by NHS Lothian Charity are proving a real success for patients, providing a welcoming opportunity to spend time outdoors, connect with nature and build positive relationships with staff and volunteers
From Gravel to Growing: A Summer of Nature Connection …
There’s been plenty happening across the Western General this summer, with more opportunities than ever for staff, patients and visitors to connect with nature.
A Summer of Growing, Creativity and Connection at the …
It’s been a busy and rewarding summer across the Edinburgh BioQuarter, with staff, patients, visitors and wildlife all making the most of the warmer weather and our growing network of green spaces.
Growing Creative Spaces at the Royal Edinburgh Hospita…
It’s been a busy few months across the Royal Edinburgh Hospital, with a range of projects helping to enhance outdoor spaces for patients, visitors and staff.
Recent case studies
Bee Healthy Project at Carmondean Health Centre, West Lothian
The Carmondean Health Centre has taken a proactive step towards promoting biodiversity and improving staff and patient wellbeing by creating […]
Climate Challenge Grants – 2024 Impact Report
Why the Climate Challenge Grants were introduced Climate change poses a major threat not only to our planet but also […]
RSPB Nature Connections Pilot at the Western General Hospital
Through the summer and spring of 2023, our team worked with RSPB Scotland to test nature connection activities and a […]
Grateful for greenery
At just 23-years-old, Ria O’Hanlan found herself in hospital fighting for her life. The occupational therapy student went from experiencing […]
Scroll through our upcoming events and activities
Green Health Activities at the Bioquarter: Autumn/Winter 2026
Discover our Nature Ranger Activities at the Royal Infirmary. No need to book, just turn up and take the opportunity to step away for a short time, switch off and enjoy connecting with the nature around the site, then return to work refreshed and recharged.
Green Health Activities at Western General: Summer/Autumn 2026
Join Beth, our Nature and Wellbeing Officer, for a range of nature-based activities to support your health and wellbeing. All […]
Astley Ainslie Meadow Conservation Days
Step into the meadow and learn one of the most sustainable, peaceful, and rewarding land-management skills in history. Discover how traditional scything boosts biodiversity, supports climate resilience, and enhances personal well-being—then take to the field to try it yourself.
Looking Through a New Lens – Exhibition
NHS Lothian Charity’s Green Health and Tonic Arts programmes are proud to present a photographic exhibition of original images created by […]
Connect to our network to learn and share
If you feel passionately about the benefits of nature and their potential in addressing health inequalities, join our Green Health Network. All you need are a few good ideas, a little time to spare and a willingness to be involved with promoting and supporting green health activities across the Lothians.
Get in touch
Get in touch if you would like to find out more or discuss how we can work together to benefit NHS Lothian patients and staff.
🌿 Our Green Health Summer Newsletter is here! Discover nature activities & refreshed spaces for wellbeing @NHS_Lothian. ✨ Highlights: Connect with Nature, Green Health activities & new resources!
Read now 👉 https://ow.ly/tvZc50WS0Vu
#LothianGreenHealth #ConnectWithNature
We’ve launched a new #GreenSocialPrescribing resource for West Lothian with @NHSLothCharity 🌼
Making it easier to access local green activities for wellbeing.
Take a look ➡️ https://westspace.org.uk/green-social-prescriptions/
#LothianGreenHealth #Westspace
🌱 New for East Lothian! We’ve launched a #GreenSocialPrescribing resource with @NHSLothCharity.
Find green activities to support your mental health and recovery.
Start exploring ➡️ https://eastspace.org.uk/green-social-prescriptions/
#LothianGreenHealth #Eastspace
Look through a different lens this summer. 📸Join our Nature Ranger, Aisling, for photography workshops for staff & patients at Astley Ainslie Hospital in partnership with Stills: Centre for Photography from 23 June!
Find out more👉https://ow.ly/jEak50VVwZn
#LothianGreenHealth
We’re thrilled to have supported NHS Lothian to create their Biodiversity Action Plan. We look forward to continuing to work together to support these important green spaces, enhancing the wellbeing of patients, staff, & the community, & protecting our planet. #LothianGreenHealth
NHS Lothian are very proud of the green spaces we own & manage. This is why we’ve launched a Biodiversity Action Plan to create a thriving natural environment across our estate. https://news.nhslothian.scot/2025/05/21/nhs-lothian-launches-plan-to-develop-and-protect-our-green-areas/
🐦 Astley Ainslie bird walk! 🌿 Apr 22nd – drop in between 12:15-2pm. Spot woodpeckers, buzzards, nuthatches & more! 🦅 Learn bird ID with Aisling. Binoculars & guides provided. Meet at pet cemetery/St Roque lawn. All welcome! #BirdWatching #NatureWalk #LothianGreenHealth
