A new collaboration between The Human Nature Partnership, University of Brighton and Culture Shift has been bringing nature engagement to the NHS. Recent ‘Wilding Workshops’ have been inspired by the book ‘Being in Nature’ by James Farrell and Lee Evans from The Human Nature Partnership / Nature Connection Books.
The University design team created tactile prompt cards using images and words from the book, and others inspired by nature. Interactive workshops facilitated by Culture Shift CEO Julia Roberts helped staff from a range of NHS functions explore their own relationship with nature, and begin to envision outdoor spaces at NHS sites that benefited staff, patients, community and wildlife.
Staff also spent time outside in a brief ‘nature connection’ session led by James Farrell – and reported increased feelings of closeness, calm and peacefulness, and positive memories of being in nature as children. This ‘self coach’ is a feature of the ‘Being in Nature’ book.
The vast majority of NHS staff surveyed by The Human Nature Partnership said they wanted to see more natural spaces at work, including wildflowers, birds and sheltered spaces to rest and collaborate outdoors. 75% of staff wanted to learn more about how to incorporate nature into their work.
Why not get a copy of ‘Being in nature’ and see for yourself the benefits of a closer relationship with the natural world.
