Grounds for Health
Did you know there is more than 81 hectares of green spaces, gardens and woodlands on the NHS Lothian estate?
What is Grounds for Health?
Grounds for Health is about building networks and connections in order to support more people to access the greenspaces on ur NHS Lothian estate in order to improve health and wellbeing. Our NHS Grounds for Health projects work with patients, staff and partner organisations to make the most of these greenspaces. These spaces can and should be used to improve health and wellbeing and help us fight climate change. Our work makes the grounds and gardens of healthcare sites more welcoming and easier to use, which is beneficial for both people and wildlife.
Did you know there is more than 81 hectares of green spaces, gardens and woodlands on the NHS Lothian estate? This greenspace is now a key part of the NHS response to the climate emergency, and to meeting Scotland’s biodiversity commitments. Greenspace and biodiversity are now a key focus area as part of the NHS Lothian Sustainable Development Framework and Action Plan.
We work with a wide range of partners to enhance the NHS Lothian estate and deliver activities that engage patients, staff and communities. Here are some examples of our live projects and case studies.
Grounds for Health Case Studies
Nature Heals
Nature heals. It’s a simple statement, a simple message, but sometimes the simple things are the most powerful. I’m 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 […]
Nurturing our natural health service
In 2019, I joined NHS Lothian as part of NHS Lothian Charity. The Charity’s mission is to enhance the lives […]
Grounds for Health Projects
Access Place
You place for greenspace, Royal Edinburgh Hospital
Wildlife at the Western
Green Health Activity Pathway
Wild Ways Well, Livingston
Biodiversity Audit
A Greenspace Management Plan for Astley Ainslie Hospit…
Did you know NHS Lothian is the first health board in Scotland to undertake a comprehensive assessment of the biodiversity of the green spaces in its estate?
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.