Nature, wellbeing and a little friendly competition at the RIE and BioQuarter – Spring Round Up

By Lou Evans, Nature Rehabilitation Ranger

There’s a real buzz across the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh and the BioQuarter this spring – and not just from the bees. From new planting and wildlife-friendly spaces to staff activities and a growing chilli challenge, nature is becoming a bigger part of everyday life on site.

Planting for people and nature

Earlier this year, I worked with volunteer teams to plant up the area outside the Department of Clinical Neuroscience and the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People.

What started as a simple planting project is now bursting into life – with drought-resistant, nectar-rich plants attracting bumblebees and brightening the space for staff, patients and visitors alike.

Across the wider site, there’s also work underway with NHS Estates and Equans to look at the grass cutting programme – creating longer grass areas that will support insects, birds and, over time, richer biodiversity.

Small moments, big impact

Sometimes it’s the smaller moments that make the biggest difference.

When staff in the Emergency Department spotted aphids attacking their garden plants during a break, I stepped in with a natural solution – introducing ladybirds from the staff wellbeing courtyard to help restore balance.

It’s just one example of how these spaces are evolving, with nature playing an active role in how they’re cared for and enjoyed.

A space to pause

The staff wellbeing courtyard continues to grow as a place to step away and recharge. Now full of life – from ladybird larvae to bumblebees and even the occasional raucous male blackbird – it’s being enjoyed by both staff and wildlife.

I have been running a programme of relaxed, drop-in activities, with support from the Tonic Arts and the Work Well teams, including:

Nature walks
Herbal health sessions
Creative “take a break” art activities

There’s also a mix of regular lunchtime walks and more tailored sessions, helping more people find a moment of calm in a busy day.

The Chilli Challenge

One of the highlights this season has been the Chilli Challenge – bringing together over 100 individuals and teams from across the BioQuarter.

From porters to clinical teams, participants have been growing their own chilli plants, sharing tips and enjoying a bit of friendly competition along the way.

While a cold spring made things tricky at times, the shared effort has been a real success – sparking conversations, building connections, and even making its way into senior management discussions!

It’s given me the chance to connect with so many people across the site – I’m constantly being stopped for a chat. That’s what this is all about.

Growing connections

Alongside larger projects, day-to-day activities continue to make a difference – from windowsill growing sessions in the Emergency Department courtyard to bespoke support for teams wanting to improve their green spaces.

There’s a growing recognition that these initiatives aren’t just about plants – they’re about people. Creating opportunities to connect, take a break, learn something new, and feel part of something shared.

Looking ahead

From blossoming planting schemes to new ideas taking root, it’s clear that nature is becoming an important part of life across the RIE and BioQuarter.

And this is just the beginning. 
 
All of this and much more is detailed on the RIE/Bioquarter page on our Green Health website. And for bespoke support contact Lou directly by emailing [email protected]