The Wildlife Trusts’ 30 Days Wild backed by NHS

The Wildlife Trusts and the Greener NHS programme at NHS England are inviting people to engage with nature and wildlife for the betterment of their wellbeing throughout June by participating in the “UK’s largest nature challenge”, 30 Days Wild.

The month-long initiative encourages people to connect with nature and local wildlife every day for the month of June in an “easy and accessible way.”

Evidence shows that prolonged engagement with nature has great benefits for both a person’s physical and mental wellbeing but also for nature conservation, says The Wildlife Trusts.

As part of the NHS’s 75th birthday celebrations, the Greener NHS programme at NHS England is partnering with The Wildlife Trusts to highlight the work of NHS workers who create and maintain green spaces.

Greener NHS will be showcasing NHS gardens and green spaces across the NHS estate that support biodiversity, improve air quality and provide health benefits for staff and patients.

Dr Amir Khan, NHS doctor and vice-president of The Wildlife Trusts, says: “Being in and around nature is so important for our health and happiness, whether that’s exercising outdoors, breakfasting in the garden, or lying in the park and enjoying the birds. I am delighted the NHS is encouraging people to get outside this June. Taking time each day to pause and purposefully observe and enjoy nature can do wonders for our wellbeing, while motivating us to do our bit to help wildlife. I urge people right across the British Isles to get involved in 30 Days Wild this year!”

In a survey conducted last year, over 74% of nearly 1,000 participants said 30 Days Wild improved their mental health, while 76% said the challenge improved their relationship with nature and 81% said it motivated them to do more to protect nature.

Research by The Wildlife Trusts and University of Derby in 2020 revealed that people’s health improved by 30% after participating in 30 Days Wild.