Northumbria Healthcare creates new nature ranger role after £20,000 funding boost
A new nature role is being introduced across Northumbria Healthcare thanks to a £20,000 boost.
The trust are now hiring a new nature recovery ranger who will lead a range of projects designed to enhance biodiversity and create greener, more welcoming outdoor spaces across the trust's sites.
The role will focus on improving habitats for wildlife while creating opportunities for patients, staff, volunteers and local communities to connect with nature.
Planned initiatives include tree planting, meadow creation, wildlife surveys, pollinator-friendly planting schemes and community volunteering activities.
Research continues to highlight the important role that access to nature can play in supporting physical and mental wellbeing.
By enhancing outdoor environments across Northumberland and North Tyneside, the project aims to create spaces that are not only richer in wildlife but also more enjoyable and beneficial for the people who use them.
The nature recovery ranger will help identify opportunities for conservation and habitat improvement, ensuring the trust's green spaces deliver lasting benefits for both people and nature.
Clare Winter, head of sustainability and net zero at Northumbria Healthcare Facilities Management (NHFM), said: “This exciting new role represents an important step forward in our commitment to sustainability and enhancing our outdoor spaces.
“Our green spaces are much more than grounds surrounding our hospitals. They are valuable environments that support biodiversity, improve staff and patient wellbeing and contribute to a more sustainable future.
“The ranger will play a key role in helping us protect and develop these areas, creating habitats for wildlife, encouraging community engagement and ensuring our sites are welcoming and accessible for everyone.”
The role has been made possible through joint funding from Bright Charity, as well as a £20,000 grant from The National Lottery.
Rob Graham, head of Bright Charity, said: “Access to high-quality outdoor spaces can make a real difference to people's experiences, whether that's providing a peaceful place for patients during recovery, somewhere families can spend time together, or a space where staff can take a moment to recharge.
“We're excited to see how this role will help transform and enhance our green spaces, creating environments that support wellbeing for years to come.”