Healthy spaces

There is considerable evidence supporting the health benefits arising from green spaces. Good quality green spaces should provide an opportunity for the local community to improve their own physical and mental health by meeting the variety of needs of each community.

Many parks services have teamed up with local Primary Care Trusts and organisations, such as BTCV, to fund and operate specific health-related activities. For example, healthy walks and green gyms aimed at encouraging more people to use the environment for healthier lifestyles.

Green spaces are not simply restricted to parks, play areas and country parks but also include allotments, community gardens and urban-based farms.