Myplace, our collaborative partnership between The Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside and the Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust, has been leading the way for nature-based social prescribing in the North West since 2016.

The team were delighted to recieve such a highly sought after award at the recent Health Service Journal Award’s ceremony – often compared to winning a category at The Oscars for the NHS.  

The award goes some way towards recognising the incredible work of Myplace, particularly over the last 12-months, and the dedication of our staff, volunteers, participants, funders and supporters – we couldn’t do it without you.

The award even caught the attention of TV personality and Wildlife Trust Ambassador, Dr Amir Khan.

Rhoda Wilkinson, Myplace Project Manager said: "It was amazing to receive the HSJ Mental Health Innovation of the Year Award. The partnership between Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust and The Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside is really special and has always worked creatively to connect people with nature. These last 12 months though, keeping people connected to their local nature and communities has been critical. We're really proud of the determination and hard work of everyone involved."

During lockdown, Myplace continued to support communities with their mental health through online sessions, phone calls and a range of free growing kits and resources for people to enjoy at home; even using online gaming activities to bring nature to people.

Myplace participant, Graham, said: “Myplace sessions have consistently been crucial to my recovery from depression, anxiety and self-isolation. They provide a non-judgemental space with people from different backgrounds.  I like to think of Myplace as a kind of living mindfulness – noticing the world around you, connecting with people and with nature, and giving something back. Myplace sessions provide you with new skills and an opportunity to come out of your shell, they help with your confidence and believing in yourself. I cannot recommend them highly enough.”

As we come out of lockdown, we are slowly and safely returning back to our outdoor sessions whilst also keeping the digital offer in place and the project continues to grow and expand our offer to reach even more people.

Kevin O’Hara, Partnership Development Manager at Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust said: “Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust are really proud of the innovative partnership with The Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside. Winning the HSJ Mental Health Innovation of the Year Award has given us all a real boost and just shows what can be achieved through partnership work. Well done everyone!”

From new training opportunities and wellbeing sessions using the video game, Minecraft, to brand new offers starting up in Greater Manchester, this next year is set to be incredibly exciting.

Keep up with our Myplace project by following us on social media or visit our project page to find out more and start your journey with us today.