The NHS estate is vast and has a large footprint across the North West region, spanning a diverse array of landscapes, from densely populated urban centres to rural environments with natural habitats on the doorstep. Across all of the NHS estate, there is a real opportunity to transform grounds and buildings into hubs for nature; improving space for species to thrive, which will simultaneously contribute to the targets set out in the NHS Green Plans, whilst connecting more people with local green & blue environments. A greater connection to nature is proven to improve the mental and physical wellbeing of patients, service-users and staff members. By supporting nature across the North West and contributing to the Nature Recovery Network, the NHS estate can become a central component to the improved environments for our wildlife, and the improved lives of our communities.

The Nature Recovery on NHS Estates, North West Regional Conference aims to bring together colleagues from across Estates, Sustainability, Social Prescribing and Public Health, covering the three ICS areas of the North West region (Greater Manchester, Cheshire & Merseyside, and Lancashire & South Cumbria - North Cumbria will be included for this conference) with Natural England colleagues to strengthen appetite and knowledge of the ‘how-to’ on nature recovery. It is an opportunity for partners across varying sectors and organisations (from local authorities to NHS trust) to discuss joint ambition across the Health & Environment agenda. The conference will focus on practical workshops, bringing together relevant partners for informed discussion, leaving delegates with a clear understanding of the next steps to nature recovery on their respective estates.

The conference structure will be as follows:

- Workshop One: ‘North West Local Nature Recovery Strategies’

- Workshop Two: ‘The Practicalities of Nature Recovery’; including Green Finance

- Panel Discussion: ‘Why a connection to nature is vital for the health and wellbeing of our communities’; followed by a Q&A on Green Social Prescribing and nature connectedness, with North West representatives

Food and refreshments will be provided to all delegates.

We will be taking photos on the day to use in our internal and external communications, including on social media and our website. If you would rather not have your photo taken, please let a member of staff know on the day.