15 trees including crab apple, rowan, and cherry were planted at Woodland View, an SHSC nursing home in Sheffield.

As well as supporting local wildlife, trees are one of the most effective ways to store carbon which helps to reduce the effects of climate change. The NHS became the first health service in the world to declare a climate emergency last year and has committed to becoming carbon net zero by 2040.

The trees have been selected for their benefit to the environment, for example the Rowan Trees will provide a perfect habitat for waxwings when they visit the UK in Winter.

The trees will not only benefit the environment, they’ll help to further improve the peaceful and therapeutic spaces at Woodland View and support the wellbeing of residents and staff alike. Their addition is part of the NHS Forest project which aims to increase access to green space on or near NHS land.

The planting has taken place during sustainability week, throughout which we've held events and engagement sessions for staff to help plan their sustainability work over the coming years.

Richard Mills, Non Executive Director at SHSC, said: “SHSC supports people in Sheffield at sites across the city, and as a result are in a position to create green spaces from Grenoside in the North to Gleadless in the South. It’s great to see this starting today with 15 trees which will grow over time and bring delight to residents and staff at Woodland View.”

Sarah Ellison, Sustainable development lead at SHSC, said: “Trees are one of the best tools we have to mitigate the effects of climate change. They absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and provide shade and shelter to nearby buildings, reducing the need for heating and air-conditioning which are themselves energy intensive. I’m looking forward to seeing more and more trees at our sites in the future to help the NHS become carbon net zero by 2040."

Dr Dasal Abayaratne, a Psychiatrist at SHSC, added: There’s a huge amount of evidence that shows that access to green spaces improves people’s mental wellbeing, reduces stress, and provides a great place for physical and mental relaxation. I see this in my own work on a daily basis so I’m delighted to see these new trees planted.