Local NHS opens nature walk to boost

South West Yorkshire Mental Health NHS Trust has officially opened a new nature walk at its Fieldhead site in Wakefield to boost the wellbeing of people receiving treatment there. Trees, bushes, wildflowers and shrubs have been planted beside a new pathway in the grounds to provide a peaceful space for service users to walk.

The Woodland Walk was officially opened by the Trust’s chief executive, Steven Michael on September 15th when staff and service users gathered to take a walk along the path.

Chief Executive Steven Michael said, "I am delighted to open the woodland walk and am sure it will benefit not only service users, but staff and visitors too. Exercise and fresh air are great for everyone’s mental and physical wellbeing and this fantastic outdoor retreat will help more people to benefit from both."

Michael Gartland, head of pastoral and spiritual care said, ‘It is a lovely walk that is sensitive to the environment and makes a positive impact on the experiences of service users

The path is now fully operational and provides a safe and scenic 15-20 minute circular walk around Fieldhead’s grounds. Hundreds of trees were planted as part of the development. There are plans to further develop the facility in the future by adding new species of plants, more picnic benches and bird and bat boxes.